
SOME FRESHWATER AQUARIUM FISHES 

The Scaled Carp, Cyprinus carpio communis, Fig. 43, was originally 
introduced into Europe from Central Asia, and has been extensively culti- 
vated in natural and artificial ponds and slow-flowing streams. It is dis- 
tinguished from its kindred breeds by its regular concentrically arranged 
scales. ‘The color is variable but is usually brownish with a bluish tinge 
along the back and a golden or coppery reflection along the scales. 
The Mirror Carp, Cyprinus carpio specularis, Fig. 44, has very large 
irregularly disposed scales. Some forms have very few scales, sometimes 
restricted to one row along the lateral line, or in others to a line along the 
back with a few large scales scattered at random over the sides. Some have 
a dorsal, a ventral and a lateral line of scales on an otherwise scaleless body, 
these differences being produced by the careful selection and propagation 
of breeders. 

FIG. 44—Young Mirror Carp, Cyprinus carpio specularis 
The color of the back is a decided bluish tone tinged with green and 
grey, which extends over the sides. “The abdomen and the fins are white. 
The Leather Carp, Cyprinus carpio coriaceus, sive. nudus, Fig. 444 has 
either a few scales on the back or none at all, and possesses a thick soft 

FIG. 44a—Young Leather Carp, Cyprinus carpio coriaceus 
leathery skin, which feels velvety to the touch. Those of golden-brown, 
color and devoid of scales are most highly prized by European breeders. 
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