![]() Īdults of the species feed primarily on aquatic plants. The eggs are thought to die if they sink to the bottom. In the wild, grass carp spawn in fast-moving rivers, and their eggs, which are slightly heavier than water, develop while drifting downstream, kept in suspension by turbulence. This species occurs in lakes, ponds, pools, and backwaters of large rivers, preferring large, slow-flowing or standing water bodies with vegetation. They thrive in small lakes and backwaters that provide an abundant supply of freshwater vegetation. They eat up to three times their own body weight daily. In Silver Lake, Washington, a thriving population of grass carp is passing the 15-year mark. ![]() According to one study, they live 5-9 years, with the oldest surviving 11 years. The maximum length is 2.0 m (6.6 ft) and they grow to 45 kg (99 lb). Young fish stocked in the spring at 20 cm (7.9 in) will reach over 45 cm (18 in) by fall. Body color is dark olive, shading to brownish-yellow on the sides, with a white belly and large, slightly outlined scales. The dorsal fin has eight to 10 soft rays, and the anal fin is set closer to the tail than most cyprinids. ![]() Broad, ridged, pharyngeal teeth are arranged in a 2, 4-4, 2 formula. The complete lateral line contains 40 to 42 scales. The terminal mouth is slightly oblique with nonfleshy, firm lips, and no barbels. Grass carp have elongated, chubby, torpedo-shaped body forms. ![]()
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