| Russ
I found it surprising how many colors occur in the wild carp. I find it interesting they can reach maturity in 4 months under artifically controlled conditions. Also that color can change during spawning.
Mitch
Coloration is variable, depending mainly on the environment. Usually, the top of the head and body are dark brownish-blue, the sides bright golden, and the underside off-white near the head, changing to a yellowish near the tail. The dorsal fin has the same colour as the top of the body, as does the upper portion of the tail, while the lower part of the tail often has a reddish-orange tinge. The pectoral, ventral and anal fins vary between slate grey and pale reddish-orange. Variations in colour in individual fish can take place throughout the year, and are especially noticeable during spawning.
Maturity is usually reached between 2-4 years, with the male often maturing earlier than the female. The time taken appears to depend to a large extent upon temperature, for under artificially controlled conditions carp have reached maturity after only 4-8 months.
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