Control Methods

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Grass Carp

• Grass Carp
• Origin and biology
• Feeding habits
• Stocking grass carp
• Removal and consumption

Click here for a printable version of this publication: Aquatic Weed Control: Using Grass Carp

It is important to identify the problem plant(s) properly and to choose to stock grass carp only when the problem plants are those that grass carp are proven to control. A number of studies have determined grass carp preferences of the various common aquatic plants, and results from some of that work are summarized in this publication. In some cases, although grass carp are listed in the scientific literature as preferring a certain weed, field experience in Mississippi shows them to be ineffective on a consistent basis. Those plants that grass carp do not consistently control are rated as "low" in effectiveness. Below is a list of common Mississippi aquatic plants (common and scientific names), their preference by grass carp, and the effectiveness grass carp have in providing their control in lakes and small impoundments.