What are Triploid Grass Carp?
Triploid Grass Carp are reproductively sterile fish that feed on aquatic vegetation. They can grow to be very large (50+ pounds), and they will live for many years. See this PDF from MSU Extension for more information on the types of weeds that Triploid Grass Carp will and won’t control.
What will Triploid Grass Carp do for my pond?
Triploid Grass Carp, if stocked correctly, can eliminate many types of aquatic vegetation. However, in certain situations they can be detrimental to the pond because they consume beneficial vegetation. Aquatic weeds work as a filter, taking in nutrients from the water column. If the carp consume the weeds, the capacity of the pond to process nutrients is greatly reduced, and as a result algae blooms can occur. Also, the loss of aquatic vegetation is detrimental to fish habitat. For these reasons, we only recommend Triploid Grass Carp in certain situations where beneficial vegetation is not desired.
How do I obtain Triploid Grass Carp?
This exotic species is banned in Wisconsin and regulated by the State of Illinois. It is the State of Illinois policy to not permit the stocking of Triploid Grass Carp in any natural waters. Illinois allows them to be stocked in private ponds, but a permit process must be followed, which we handle for you. Contact Keystone Hatcheries for ordering information.
How many Triploid Grass Carp should I stock?
Unfortunately, partial control of weeds with Triploid Grass Carp is not usually possible. Also, after several years the Triploid Grass Carp become less effective. Stocking rates vary, but in the northern half of Illinois, the state recommends these numbers
- 20-40% of pond covered with weeds – stock 5 Triploid Grass Carp/surface acre.
- 40-60% of pond covered with weeds – stock 10 Triploid Grass Carp/surface acre.
- Over 60% of pond covered with weeds – stock 15 Triploid Grass Carp/surface acre.
Illinois Customers can contact us for Triploid Grass Carp ordering information. We will obtain all necessary permits for you.
FOR A PRICE LIST, plus ordering and availability info, WI & IL Customers can email us at info@keystonehatcheries.com. Sorry, but we do not sell fish outside of WI or IL at this time.
CUSTOM FISH STOCKING RECOMMENDATIONS: email us with some info and we will recommend a stocking for you.