Grass Carp

Since 1991 we have stocked Grass Carp in 5,000 ponds ranging in size from less than ¼ acre to more than 50 acres.  This sterile vegetarian fish, not native to New York, is an important species for any pond that needs weed control.  Ecologically and economically superior to chemicals, the Grass Carp live on avg. 5-7 yrs. and help maintain vegetation control.  Ponds that are used for swimming, irrigation, golf course waterways, or just scenic beauty benefit from their voracious appetite.  Grass Carp often grow 2-3 ft. in length and exceed 35 lbs.!  As a licensed New York State supplier of Grass Carp we will help you obtain the required permit for purchase.

What is a Grass Carp?

The Grass Carp is one of the largest members of the minnow family.  Native to the rivers of eastern China and the Soviet Union, it has been introduced into over 50 countries worldwide due to its uncanny ability to control a wide variety of aquatic vegetation.  Coloration of the fish ranges from dark grey to golden brown on the back, blending to white on the belly.  Grass Carp feed strictly by grazing on aquatic vegetation and do not share the bottom feeding habits of common carp and goldfish. 

What is a Triploid Grass Carp?

In 1983, U.S. grass carp producers began production of a sterile (triploid) form of grass carp.  Triploid grass carp are created through shocking grass carp eggs after fertilization with either hot or cold water.  This temperature shock results in the retention of an extra chromosome set, rendering the fish incapable of producing viable young.  Triploid grass carp are the only form of grass carp legal in New York State.

What are the aquatic plant preferences of grass carp?

Grass Carp have distinct feeding preferences, preferring tender, succulent plant species over those that are tough and fibrous.  Grass carp will not control emergent species such as cattail or bulrush or floating leaved species such as water shield or water lily.  Even among submergent plant species, selectivity and consumption rate varies. Never the less you won’t want to have a pond without grass carp. Stocking varies from 5 to 15 fish per acre depending on weed density.