The mrigal carp ( Cirrhinus cirrhosus), () also known as the white carp, is a species of ray-finned fish in the Cyprinidae. Native to streams and rivers in India, the only surviving wild population is in the Cauvery River, leading to its IUCN rating as vulnerable.[ It is widely Aquaculture, and introduced populations exist outside its native range.]
Aquaculture
Mrigal is popular as a food fish and an important aquacultured freshwater species throughout South Asia.[
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The Indian carps are considered as a delicacy compared to other exotic carp species also cultured in Asia, and sell for higher prices.[ Reported annual aquafarming production numbers of mrigal carp since the early 1990s have varied between 250,000 and 550,000 tonnes, with no clear trend. India and Bangladesh are the largest producers.][
In Pakistan, this fish is known by the name of "Morakhi" or "Moree". In Nepal it is called "Naini".
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The Mrigal carp was brought to Guangdong province in southern China for aquaculture, but it is now considered an invasive species in the Pearl River basin.
Habitat and ecology
Mrigal is an benthopelagic and potamodromous plankton feeder. It inhabits fast flowing streams and rivers, but can tolerate high levels of salinity. Spawning occurs in marginal areas of the water bodies with a depth of over a sand or clay substrate. A female can lay a million eggs. This fish has a rapid growth rate; by the age of two, individuals can reach a length of and can weigh as much as .
