Dongping Lake Carp

Dongping Lake Carp

Dongping Lake Carp is a product with geographical indication status.

　　Dongping Lake Carp, commonly known as red fish, is one of Shandong’s famous and distinctive aquatic products, named after being produced in Dongping Lake. Originally from the Yellow River, Dongping Lake is connected to the Yellow River. During flood seasons, Yellow River carp enter the lake with the water flow. The nutrient-rich waters of the lake provide an ideal environment for fish breeding and growth, leading to the settlement of Yellow River carp in the lake.

　　This fish has a flat and plump body, a dark grayish-black back, a yellowish-white belly, and reddish lower tail fin lobes, earning it the reputation of “golden fins and golden scales.” There is a pair of barbels on either side of the carp’s mouth, and its large scales feature small black spots, with all individuals having thirty-six scales. Its flesh is tender, delicious, and not greasy, containing 21% protein, making it extremely nutritious and considered top-tier among fish. It has long been a delicacy at banquets, prepared in various ways such as braised, sweet-and-sour, soy sauce-flavored, and steamed. It is especially indispensable at celebratory feasts, symbolizing “a fish leaping over the dragon gate” and sharing the homophonic blessing of “carp” and “gift” (鲤礼), conveying joy and good wishes to newlyweds and guests.

　　This fish lives near the bottom, is omnivorous, and has strong mobility and fast growth. It spawns twice a year, from spring until late summer. Fry hatched in spring can grow to about 0.5 kilograms by the end of the year and over 1 kilogram the following year. In recent years, due to more advanced fishing methods, the population of Dongping Lake carp has significantly decreased. To protect the lake carp, the Dongping County Aquatic Bureau has actively expanded artificial breeding. In 2000, the aquaculture area in lakes and ponds exceeded 80,000 mu, with a yield of over 50,000 tons, selling well in cities such as Jinan and Tianjin.