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How to Distinguish Common Fish: A Guide to Identifying Carp, Crucian Carp, and Grass Carp for Home Cooks

Have you ever found yourself in a pickle, unable to tell the difference between carp, bighead carp, and silver carp? Well, worry not! We are here to help you master the art of distinguishing these three fish like a pro.

Administrator

7 August, 2024

For many people, even those with years of cooking experience, it can be challenging to distinguish between carp, black carp, and grass carp. However, these three types of fish actually have distinct characteristics. Let’s guide you on how to tell them apart!

1. Carp

Carp

Carp is most easily identified by its head. It has large whiskers, a wide mouth with small fleshy bumps, giving it a rough lip, and two large eyes set far apart.

Typically, carp have medium-sized bodies with thick, meaty flanks covered in large scales. Their backs are usually dark, fading to a lighter shade towards the belly.

When choosing carp, look for those that are still lively and energetic, with small heads and thick, long bodies. Avoid those with overly large guts, as the meat may not taste as good. Also, steer clear of overly heavy and round ones, as they are likely farmed.

Carp is versatile and can be used in a variety of delicious dishes, such as:, , ,…

Price reference: 1kg of carp typically costs 50,000 – 60,000 VND.

2. Black Carp

There are two common types of black carp: black carp and grass carp.

Black carp is distinguished by its glossy black back and white belly. Its body is long and slender, shaped like a round tube. They usually weigh between 3 and 5kg, and their meat is firm and flavorful, making black carp a delicacy among freshwater fish. Consequently, it tends to be more expensive.

Black Carp

Grass carp, on the other hand, can be easily mistaken for carp if you’re not careful. However, grass carp lack whiskers, and their bodies are slender and cylindrical, with a tapered belly near the tail. The entire body is a light yellow color, with a darker back that fades to a whitish-gray belly.

Grass Carp

The difference in their habitats also results in distinct colorations. Grass carp live in mid-level waters and feed mainly on plants, hence their light yellow color. In contrast, black carp inhabit the bottom layers and consume small fish and shrimp, resulting in a darker shade. However, their mouths are quite similar, both being wide and arched, with the upper jaw protruding beyond the lower one.

Regardless of the type, always opt for fish that are still swimming vigorously and actively in the tank. Avoid those that are already dead or lying still, as their meat won’t be as fresh and tasty.

Black carp has a sweet and distinctive flavor and can be prepared in a variety of mouthwatering dishes such as:, , ,…

Price reference:

1kg of grass carp typically costs around 80,000 VND.
1kg of black carp will set you back 180,000 – 300,000 VND.

3. Grass Carp

Grass Carp

Grass carp may look similar to black carp at first glance, but they are smaller and have a black body. Grass carp have a protruding head with a blunt snout and no facial folds. Additionally, their mouth slits are shallow, and there is a straight, dark line running from the nose to the snout. They also sport two pairs of small whiskers, one at the corner of the jaw and one at the tip of the snout.

Their bodies are well-proportioned, flattened on the sides, and tapered towards the tail. They typically weigh between 8 ounces and 2kg. The body is a light yellow color, with a white belly.

When buying grass carp, look for those with shiny, intact scales, bright eyes, and reddish-fresh gills, as these indicate freshness.

Grass carp is commonly used in a variety of familiar dishes, including:, ,…

We hope that with this basic information, we have helped home cooks and everyone else to distinguish between carp, black carp, and grass carp. Now you can navigate the fish market with confidence and avoid being cheated! Don’t forget to check out for more insights!

Frequently asked questions

There are several key differences between these three fish species. Common carp have a thick, stubby body with a flat head and small eyes. They are usually dark grey or brown in color with a silvery sheen. Crucian carp are smaller and more slender, with a pointed snout and larger eyes. They are typically golden-brown or olive-green. Grass carp have an elongated body with a straight back and a large, upturned mouth. They are silver-grey or olive-green, and their scales have a yellowish tint.

Common carp: Look for a thick body, flat head, small eyes, and dark grey or brown color with a silvery sheen. Crucian carp: Note the slender body, pointed snout, larger eyes, and golden-brown or olive-green color. Grass carp: Observe the elongated body, straight back, large upturned mouth, and silver-grey or olive-green scales with a yellowish tint.

Check the physical characteristics as described above. Additionally, common carp and crucian carp are freshwater fish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor, whereas grass carp are usually found in rivers and have a stronger, more distinct flavor.

Yes, there are a few potential look-alikes. Mirror carp are similar to common carp but have a more elongated body and larger, reflective scales. Silver carp are related to grass carp but have a more slender body and a silvery color. Lastly, wild carp, or leather carp, are a variant of common carp with a leaner body and darker color.

Common carp and crucian carp are versatile and can be baked, fried, grilled, or steamed. They are often used in soups, stews, or fried dishes. Grass carp, due to their stronger flavor, are commonly used in dishes like fish cakes or fish balls, or steamed with strong-flavored ingredients like garlic and chili.