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 diflferences 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. 44A 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. 



79 



