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Silver Carp

Silver Carp

Silver Carp are an invasive species that pose a significant threat to Alabama's aquatic ecosystems, particularly in the Tennessee River system and Tombigbee River.

These fish are filter feeders that consume zooplankton and phytoplankton at the bottom of the food chain, filtering out 20-40% of their body weight daily in microscopic organisms.

This feeding behavior puts them in direct competition with native baitfish like shad and young game fish during their planktivorous life stages.

Scientific Name: Hypophthalmichthys molitrix

Physical Characteristics:

Distinguished by their deeply keeled body, tiny scales, large toothless mouth, and eyes positioned forward and slightly downward. They can grow over 4 feet long and weigh up to 75 pounds, living 20+ years.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Primarily found in the Tennessee River system and Tombigbee River

Key Locations

Tennessee River lakes - Pickwick (with relatively low to moderate abundance), Wilson (fairly rare), Wheeler (a couple reported near Flint Creek), and one confirmed in Guntersville

Specific Spots

Warm water areas of coves and creeks

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Alabama licenses and regulations

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