Crucian

Crucian (Carassius vulgaris), a fresh-water fish, nearly related to the carp, from which it differs in the absence of barbules, in the single-rowed arrangement of the pharyngeal teeth, and in a few other minor points. It is found in numerous varieties in rivers, ponds, and lakes in Europe and Asia; and is sometimes, though rarely, caught in the Thames. The food chiefly consists of dead vegetable and animal matter. The flesh is less esteemed than that of carp. The fish spawn in May or June, and then assemble in great numbers. See CARP.