Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Introduced to the UK in the Middle Ages as a food source, this large carp species inhabits eutrophic waters including lakes and ponds. They are widespread in lowland England but rarely seen in Scotland and Wales. This species is of commercial value for fishing and has also been selective bred into other species seen in the aquatic trade including mirror carp. Common carp are omnivorous and feed on a variety of plants, algae, freshwater mussels and other invertebrates.

• Avoid stepping into the water – this can stir up sediment, throwing up sediment DNA and any inhibitory molecules present. Sediment may clog the filter and prevent sufficient volumes of water being filtered.