Cyprinus rubrofuscus

Cyprinus rubrofuscus, or the Amur carp, is a species of freshwater fish belonging to the Cyprinidae family. It is the ancestral form of some domesticated koi fish, which are well known for their striking colors as an ornamental species. Often mistaken for the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), the species originated in eastern Asia but has since been widely distributed and cultured across the world. Common names include Amur carp and South China carp.

Habitat

Found in lakes and rivers, the species prefers slower flowing water of variable depth around 2 metres (6.6 ft). However, it is tolerant of a wide range of turbidity and flow conditions. It is an omnivorous bottom-feeder, with a diet consisting of benthic organisms and detritus such as arthropods, larvae, and weeds. The ratio between these feeds vary seasonally between wet and dry months depending on what is more readily available.

The Cyprinus genus is well known for its high tolerance to varying environmental conditions. C. rubrofuscus is further distinguished by its particularly high resistance to cold temperatures, high alkalinity, and low oxygen conditions.

Distribution

Originating from Eastern Asia, the native range of the Amur carp is in Mongolia, Russia, China, Laos, and Vietnam. It is found in mostly freshwater environments such as the Amur and Red River drainage basins and ponds, but is tolerant to slightly brackish water. C. rubrofuscus has been widely introduced throughout ponds in southeastern Asia, and is distributed for aquaculture purposes. In regards to distribution data, most reports group both ornamental Koi and the wild Amur carp. At present, it can not be determined which of the two the occurrence points represent.