Our Guide To Keeping Mirror Carp Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Cyprinus carpio
- Common name: Mirror Carp
- Family: Cyprinidae
- Origin: Eurasia (Domesticated variety of Common Carp)
- Adult length: 60 to 90 cm (can exceed 100 cm in large ponds or lakes)
- Lifespan: 20 to 40 years (some over 50 years)
- Diet: Omnivore
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful but robust
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Tank Setup:
- Mirror Carp are best kept in large outdoor ponds or natural lakes. A minimum volume of 2000L is suggested for a small group.
- Provide a naturalistic environment with mud or gravel substrates, aquatic vegetation, and plenty of space for foraging and swimming.
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Water Parameters:
- Maintain a pH between 6.5 and 8.0.
- Water temperature should be between 10 to 25°C (50 to 77°F). They are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions.
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- Due to their size and feeding habits, a high-capacity filtration system is essential to maintain water quality.
- Moderate water flow is ideal, and natural aeration through waterfalls or air pumps is recommended for oxygenation.
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Diet:
- Feed high-quality carp pellets or pond sticks as a staple diet.
- Supplement with natural foods like worms, insects, aquatic plants, fruits, and grains. They enjoy rooting around the substrate in search of food.
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Tank mates:
- Mirror Carp can be housed with other large, peaceful pond fish such as koi, tench, and golden orfe.
- Avoid mixing with small or delicate species that could be accidentally injured due to their size and foraging behavior.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Mirror Carp are calm, intelligent fish known for their unique scale patterns and friendly behavior toward keepers.
- They are social and often feed in groups. Provide plenty of space to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper growth and behavior.