The four kinds of invasive carp in North America have different characteristics, life cycles and distribution. Bighead and silver carp are the most widespread in the Mississippi River Basin, including the Illinois River where there is potential access to Lake Michigan.
Grass carp are the most widespread overall and present outside the Mississippi River Basin. Unlike the others, grass carp are found in all the Great Lakes except Superior and partners have prioritized preventing their establishment in Lake Erie.
Less is known about black carp compared to the others. Because they are bottom-feeders, black carp are harder to find and efforts are underway to get more thorough information on their distribution. They have been found throughout the lower Mississippi River and some tributaries, including the lower Illinois River.
Find out more about the four species of invasive carp below.
