Common Carp
Cyprinus carpio
Here at Banham Zoo
A school of common carp calls the Tropical House home, gracefully swimming beneath the bridge as visitors pass overhead. These freshwater fish are omnivores, feeding on plants, algae, invertebrates, and even other fish. In the wild, they thrive in lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands.
Unfortunately, the common carp is now classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with populations declining due to habitat changes and genetic pollution.
Where Do I Live?
Europe and Asia
The carp is a freshwater fish that prefers large areas of warm, slow flowing rivers or lakes.
What Do I Eat?
These fish will eat a wide variety of foods including mussels, mosquitoes, algae, shrimp, crayfish, molluscs, water beetles, crustaceans and water plants.
How Do I Breed?
Carp lay sticky eggs that are attached to water plants. Larvae and young fish live in warm shallow waters and feed mostly on zooplankton.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Vulnerable (VU)
High risk of endangerment in the wild.
These carp are a domesticated form of the common carp, therefore not endangered. However the wild common carp is classed as vulnerable to extinction due to the damming of rivers and hybridisation with domestic stock.
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
Common Carp
located?
Our
Common Carp
is located in our
Explorer Zone
, map reference
4
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
