Debate Erupts Over the Type of Carp Caught.
Authorities have reported that an unusual-looking fish was caught by a resident in southern Connecticut, USA. This is a classic case of genetic mutation in aquatic creatures. The Connecticut Fish and Wildlife organization has confirmed that the owner of this peculiar fish is Jimmy Ayala.
This mutated fish resembles a carp but is significantly larger, featuring unusual scales and long, drooping fins and tail. Its coloration is a mix of dark brown and golden hues, giving the entire body a shimmering appearance from head to tail.
Jimmy Ayala in Connecticut, USA caught a mutated carp.
The state’s chief believes it would be fantastic to showcase this fish, as it is a classic example of a double mutation in species.
Shortly after appearing on social media, a debate ignited over what could have caused such a fish. Some hypothesized that the carp might have mated with koi (also known as Japanese carp) or catfish; they even coined the name “Koip”, a blend of Koi (Japanese carp) and Carp (common carp). Others suggested it was simply a characteristic of the carp, while some humorously remarked that it resembled the fish that spits money in a Geico advertisement.
As for Ayala, he is not concerned about the debate, aside from asserting that the fish is not related to koi.
Ayala stated that the carp he caught weighs over 11 kg, and after catching it, he released it in East Haddam. He remarked: “Fishing is truly a wonderful battle; I fish all the time to sharpen my focus and rekindle my passion.”
Wildlife experts in Connecticut told McClatchy News that the fish’s strange appearance could be due to crossbreeding between Fantail Carp and Mirror Carp. It is known that both species are mutations of the common carp.
According to experts, Fantail Carp have long, drooping tails and scales, while Mirror Carp have particularly large and unevenly arranged scales on their bodies. One local expert expressed that “it’s uncertain how this happened, but hybridization between two mutated individuals is extremely rare.”
Ayala mentioned that a friend of his caught an identical fish four years ago in the same location. At that time, the fish weighed nearly 6.5 pounds. Ayala further shared: “I’ve been searching for that fish for many years.”
Typically, a carp can grow to over 18 kg in Connecticut. According to the state’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the current weight record for carp in Connecticut is nearly 20 kg.
