Koi, Carp, and Goldfish are among the most common pet fish worldwide. Due to resembling features, every aquarist gets confused between Goldfish vs. Koi vs. Carp.
A large fraction consider them the same, while others have confused thoughts. They have resembling features and the same properties, but they are distinct.
They belong to the same family. Due to this, there are very minute differences between these three fish.
Here is the guide to knowing about the difference between goldfish vs. koi vs carp, and always be clear when any of the fish comes in front of you.
So, let’s quickly dive in.
Goldfish vs. Koi vs. Carp Identification Table
| Features | Carp | Koi | Goldfish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cyprinus carpio | Cyprinus rubrofuscus “koi | Carassius auratus |
| Coloring | olive-green, dark brown, or even golden on the sides and belly | Gold, orange, white, black, calico, red, blue, yellow, multicolored | Gold, orange, white, black, calico, red, blue, yellow, multicolored |
| Body Shape | Unique body shapes are rounder. Common carp: elongated torpedo-like bodies or short and stocky ones with high shoulders | Elongated, fusiform-shaped body (tapering toward each end) | Various. It can be elongated, round, or egg-shaped, with long slender bodies. The tail fin is single |
| Presence of Fancy Features | The stunning array of colors and markings, glistening scales, adorned with unique patterns, mirror-like scales, while others boast brilliant colors, bright colors, unique body shapes, and patterns | Features limited to coloration and scales or no scales, unique patterns, mirror-like scales, while others boast brilliant colors, bright colors, | Various tail forms, including fantails. unique patterns and mirror-like scales, while others boast brilliant colors, bright colors |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 25 – 50 years! | 10 – 15 years in the aquarium |
| Water Filtration | Proper filtration systems are needed. | Needs excellent filtration | Needs excellent filtration |
| Equipment expenses | Pond or Tank Setup, Filtration System, Aeration, Decorations and Plants, Water Testing Kits, heater, Maintenance Tools, Initial Stocking Cost | Fish tank, filtration system, lighting unit, Maintenance Tools, Initial Stocking Cost | Fish tank, filtration system, lighting unit, Maintenance Tools, Initial Stocking Cost |
Origin and Classification
The first and foremost classification difference between Goldfish vs. Koi vs. Carp is knowing their origin and taxonomy.
Let’s learn about the first difference.
Koi
Koi is a Japanese-origin fish found across Japan. Koi’s scientific name is Cyprinus carpio. It is initially bred for different color patterns and appearances.
Koi’s name is derived from Nishikigoi, which means broad carp. They are respected in Japanese culture and associated with prosperity.
Carp
Carp, known as Cyprinus carpio, is a freshwater fish. It is found in Europe and Asia. They belong to the Cyprinidae family. They are praised due to their ability in different environments and ecologies.
They are found in ponds, lakes, and other freshwater resources. Due to this, they are perfect for fishing as a food source.
Goldfish
Goldfish, known as Carassius auratus, is found in East Asia. Goldfish and koi belong to the Cyprinidae family; therefore, they are often called similar.
They originated in China thousands of years ago due to their mesmerizing appearance. Goldfish is the most common aquatic pet around the world. They are available in various shapes and sizes.
Physical Differences
Another difference between koi, goldfish, and carp is their physique. These three have different shapes, sizes, and appearances. Let us reveal.
Koi
Koi are large fish and grow up to 3 feet long. They are available in different colors, such as black, red, yellow, brown, etc.
They have long, streamlined, and torpedo-shaped bodies. Moreover, koi have barbles in their mouth, helping them detect food.
Carp
Carps have solid and robust bodies. They are the largest of three types, long enough to 4 feet. They have long bodies that are round in shape.
They have barbels like koi that help them eat food. But, they have less vibrant coloration than koi, present in olive green, brown, or gray shades and dark scales or patches.
Goldfish
Goldfish is the most common aquatic pet, presenting an array of shapes, sizes, and colors. They come in orange, red, white, black, and gold.
Depending on the breed, they can grow from 4 inches to 14 inches. However, unlike the above two types, goldfish do not have barbels.
Habitat and Ecology
Another critical difference between koi vs. carp vs. goldfish is habitat and ecology.
Koi
Koi is known for living in large water bodies. They live in ponds at least 3 feet deep. Moreover, they are resilient to temperature changes, but the suitable water temperature choice is 59°F and 77°F.
Moreover, koi require water filtration, a heater, decorative items, and hiding spots to live happily.
Carp
Carps are freshwater fish and live in ponds, lakes, and rivers. They can survive different temperatures, but the suitable temperature is 34°F to 95°F.
They require less care and maintenance than koi, but aeration is still beneficial.
Goldfish
Goldfish require smaller ponds, tanks, and lakes. They need clear water and high filtration.
The water temperature between 50°F and 75°F is suitable. Slightly change can affect their overall life. Moreover, unlike other fish, they live in peaceful, less crowded places.
Food and Diet
Koi
Koi eat all types of food, including plants, algae, insects, and small crustaceans. Rich diet food helps them grow and have more vital color patterns.
Carp
Carp eats aquatic plants, insects, snails, and small fish. They are omnivores. But they can adapt to their surroundings and eat what is before them.
Goldfish
Goldfish is an omnivore but prefers plants more. They like algae and small insects, but their love is plants. Nutrient food gives them high energy and suitable nutrients for a happy life.
Conclusion
Carp vs. goldfish vs. koi are different on many terms. These include origins, diet, ecology, and shapes and sizes.
Other than these terms, as mentioned earlier, they also differ in breeding and reproduction. Keep these distinctions in mind and make your aquatic knowledge rich.
Proceed to our next blog, Goldfish Water Temperature Essentials, to give your fish a peaceful environment.