Biology
Grass carp are native to large rivers in China and the Soviet
Union. They commonly grow to 65-80 pounds but can get much
larger. The growth rate of grass carp like other fish is dependent
on temperature and water conditions. They reach maturity at
9-11 pounds at about 4 years of age.
History
Grass carp were first introduced into the U. S. in 1963
by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for experiments in Arkansas.
They were first legally introduced into Texas in 1981 when
270,000 were released in Lake Conroe to eliminate aquatic
vegetation as part of a scientific investigation. The use
of grass carp for biological control of aquatic weeds became
legal in 1992 under regulations. Only triploid grass carp
which are functionally sterile are allowed to be stocked in
Texas waters.
Status
Grass carp are now stocked in many water bodies in Texas.
The stocking of this fish is regulated by the Texas Parks
& Wildlife Department. Be sure to contact them for more
information and to obtain permits for their stocking.
Management
Management recommendations are supplied by Texas Parks and
Wildlife. Generally a stocking rate of 7 fish per acre is
allowed.
Weeds Affected
Primarily submerged vegetation is impacted by grass carp.
Hydrilla
is one of the main target weeds.
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