What is cited as the only definitive method to separate true Crucian Carp from feral goldfish or hybrids?
Answer
Genetic analysis
Because physical field identification is highly difficult due to morphological similarity and hybridization, laboratory genetic analysis is the only definitive way to confirm the species identity.
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Where is the Crucian Carp (*Carassius carassius*) primarily native?Which US location had a documented, but later extirpated, historical stocking of *C. carassius*?How does the Crucian Carp survive extended periods in anoxic water during freezing?What is the relationship between the Crucian Carp and the domesticated goldfish (*Carassius auratus*)?How is the dorsal fin margin of the true Crucian Carp typically characterized?Under which federal act is *Carassius carassius* designated as injurious wildlife in the U.S.?Which potentially fatal virus, reportable to the OIE, is Crucian Carp known to host?What is the general range for the number of scales along the lateral line for *C. carassius*?Which geographical areas in the contiguous U.S. show a high climate match for potential *C. carassius* establishment?What is cited as the only definitive method to separate true Crucian Carp from feral goldfish or hybrids?While juveniles are described as golden-bronze, what coloration does *C. carassius* typically exhibit upon maturity?