Black Carp
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Mylopharyngodon piceus Black carp was accidentally brought to the US along with Grass carp for scientific research and fish farming (aquaculture). Young black carp and grass carp are very difficult to tell apart. They primarily eat mussels and snails and sometimes feed along the bottom of rivers and lakes. At one point, scientists thought they would be useful in eating a particular disease-carrying snail in fish farms. They have also been studied as a possible biological removal tool for zebra mussels. They are federally listed as injurious species, which means bringing these fish into the US or transporting them across state lines is illegal. This species hasn't been found near the Upper Mississippi yet (map). Statistics: Maximum length is approximately 59 inches For more information: USGS Black Carp Fact Sheet |
Black Carp
US Geological Survey
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Did You Know?
At Lake Onalaska, near LaCrosse WI, the Mississippi River is about 4 miles wide. The combination of water held behind Lock and Dam #7 and water held by damming the Black River form this broad reach of the Mississippi River.