Israeli Mirror Carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio), occasionally referred to as Israeli carp, are a variety of common carp that is originally native to Europe but can now be found across the world. Mirror carp are aptly named due to their large, irregular scales’ resemblance to mirrors, they typically have a deeper body in comparison to common carp as well. The “Israeli carp” moniker likely originated from the “DOR-70” strain (commonly referred to as just “Israeli mirror carp”) of mirror carp originally produced in Israel and widely exported across the world. This strain is apparently distinguishable from other strains of mirror carp (of which there are many) making the term “Israeli carp” a bit of a misnomer when applied broadly. Note: The hatchery I source these fish from labels their stock as the Israeli strain of mirror carp. 

In America mirror carp are very popular amongst carp and multi-species anglers. In Europe they are highly coveted by sport fishermen and in Asia common carp are the most commonly aquacultured food fish. Despite their global popularity, true mirror carp are rarely offered to aquarium hobbyists in the US and only a few hatcheries actually produce them. Whether you’re a native fish enthusiast or just looking for something a little different for your koi pond you won’t want to miss out on these beautiful carp!

Origin: Currently available specimens are hatchery bred and raised.

Please keep in mind that these fish were bred and raised in outdoor ponds and some may have minor cosmetic imperfections such as an imperfect fin or old scar.

Care Level: Beginner-intermediate.

Diet: Omnivores that will accept a wide variety of foods and do very well on pellets/flakes. It is good to provide a varied diet with both plant and animal proteins. 

Adult Size: They average 15”-30” but can exceed 40”. While they typically stay smaller in ornamental ponds (3-10lbs) they can weigh over 20lbs, with fish over 40lbs occasionally being caught in the wild. 

pH: 7.2-8.0 is ideal, however they can tolerate pH levels outside these ranges. 

Water Temp: 65-77F is ideal, however they can tolerate a wide variety of temperatures. 

Other Care Preferences: Their care is identical to that of the standard koi as they are technically the same species. It is thought that they may grow faster than both koi and normal-variety common carp. 

NEVER release your fish into the wild or stock public waterways without permission from a government agency!

*We are a licensed dealer and propagator of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and fish in the state of Pennsylvania. All of our native and game fish (including bullfrogs, northern green frogs, and their tadpoles) come from licensed dealers and propagators with proof of receipt (available upon request to government agencies only). We WILL NOT under ANY circumstance sell any herptiles or fish collected from the commonwealth of PA, so please do not ask!*

Live mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio) for sale at MJS Reptiles. Live tropical and North American fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates for sale online and shipped right to your front door!