Carp Fishing

Fins

The carp possesses a number of fins to help it to yaw, pitch, or roll. There are two sets of paired fins known as the pectoral and pelvic fins, whilst all others are singular. Both paired sets assist with vertical and horizontal control, whilst the dorsal and anal fins help with balance. The tail fin is the most important fin of a fish as this helps with sudden bursts of speed so it can avoid danger and thus survive within the aquatic environment. However, a carp can survive without the use of its fins, and it is not uncommon to come across healthy fish that do not possess a full set.

Olfactory Senses

Situated on the dorsal surface of the snout are the olfactory sensors (the nose). The nostril opening is double, and the water enters via the anterior opening and leaves via the posterior opening; the flow of currents is generated by the swimming action of the fish. Inside the organ there are millions of tiny hairs that assist with chemoreception. There is very little scientific data about chemoreception in king carp, but in the case of the goldfish (Carassius auratus), a close relative, recordings of activity carried out by electro-olfactograms show that the fish can detect four definite olfactory stimulants: bile salts, steroids amino acids and prostaglandins. Amino acids will function as feeding stimulants, whereas prostaglandins and steroids will act as sex pheromones in the breeding season. Chemoreception in king carp is thought to be very similar to the goldfish.

The Gustatory System

The gustatory system is basically the taste organ of the fish. Within carp, the mouth is said to be the main gustatory organ. The main taste buds known as the palatal organ, are located in the roof of the mouth. However, the lips, barbells, gill rakers and pectoral fins all carry taste buds of some sort. The gustatory organ is sensitive to sour, sweet, saline and savory substances, and is incredibly sensitive compared to that of the human. There is a limited gustatory response to amino acids or nucleotides in carp, but in particular orders both can be excellent feeding stimulants.