Mirror carp

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Mirror carp are a type of fish commonly found in the United Kingdom and Europe. They can grow in excess of 60lb, with the last few British record fish have all been mirror carp.

The difference between mirror and common carp is both genetic and visual - biologically they are similar. The mirror carp was the first mutation of common carp, owing to two alternative genes, the S allele and the N allele. The genetic term for a mirror carp is "ssnn" (all minor). Common carp have an even, regular scale pattern, whereas mirrors have irregular and patchy scaling, making many fish unique, and possible to identify by sight, leading to most carp in the UK over 40lb being nicknamed. This lack of scales is widely believed to have been bred in by monks in order to make the fish easier to prepare for the table. The current record (as of Dec 13, 2005) is known as "Two tone" due to its colouring, and is currently around 64lb. The current EU record stands at 88lb (40.188kg), the fish was caught from a lake in Bordeaux, France and is the first in the world to weigh more than 40KG.

Contrary to popular belief, Leather carp are not Mirror carp without scales; there is a distinct genetic difference. Leather carp are permitted a few scales, however the dorsal row of scales is either absent or incomplete. Leathers also have reduced numbers of red blood cells, slowing growth rates.