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Bighead carp
Hypophthalmichthys nobilis
Identification
A very large head with no scales, low-set eyes, and dark blotching on a silvery-gray body.
Where It's Found
An invasive species established in the Mississippi River basin and connected waterways; filter-feeds on plankton rather than biting typical bait or lures.
Data Deficient (IUCN 3.1)
Fishing Notes
Rarely caught on hook and line since it filter-feeds — most commonly targeted by bowfishing where invasive-species removal is encouraged.
Scientific Classification▾
Family
Xenocyprididae
Genus
Hypophthalmichthysoshima
Order
Cypriniformes
Class
Actinopterygii
Phylum
Chordata
Kingdom
Animalia
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Photography sourced from Wikimedia Commons contributors.