The familyCyprinidae, named after the Greek word for goldfish, consists of the carps and minnows. It is the largest family of fresh-water fish, with over 2000 species in 210 genera. The family belongs to the order Cypriniformes. The fish in this family originate from North America, Africa, and Eurasia. The largest fish in this family is the Giant Barb (Catlocarpio siamensis) which may grow up to 10 ft. (3.0 m.) while many species are smaller than 2 in. (5 cm.). All fish in this family are egg-layers and the breeding habits of most is one of non-guarding of the eggs, however, there are a few species that build nests and/or guard the eggs.
"Cyprinidae" (TSN 163342) (http://www.itis.usda.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=163342). Integrated Taxonomic Information System. N.p.: Integrated Taxonomic Information System, 2004. Accessed on 28 April2004.
"Cyprinidae" (http://www.fishbase.org/Summary/FamilySummary.cfm?Family=Cyprinidae). FishBase. Ed. Ranier Froese and Daniel Pauly. September 2004 version. N.p.: FishBase, 2004.
Cyprinidae species represent a substantial portion of the standing stock of fish species in Iraqi lakes, rivers and streams.
Occasionally Cyprinidae may be observed feeding on the surface, especially during early morning or late evening.
Since Cyprinidae have excellent hearing senses and the night-time hours are typically free of many noises, it is important to walk softly on the shoreline and to remain quiet.
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