Mirror Carp Cyprinus carpio

The Mirror Carp is the same species as the Common Carp but was modified hundreds of years ago to have fewer, larger scales. These remaining large scales are often shiny, giving it its name.

The scales are usually along the back and around the tail area as a minimum. They can also be along the lateral line of the flank and can be more extensive.

Other than the scales, the fish's structure, mouth barbels, habits and distribution are the same as the Common Carp and it is often found together with them.

Above centre and right: Mirror Carp being moved from small pond to larger water body; photos by Lawrence Bard.