"Carp were introduced into North America as a food source from France in 1831 and in just 50 years carp became established nationwide." http://www.njfishandwildlife.com/fish_carp.htm

Carp are tolerent of different water conditions and they developed a reputation as a trash fish because they can live in polluted waters most fish can not survive. They are a great game fish....hook one on a fly rod and you'll know. They can be very wary and are challenging prey.

Hope this helps,
John G.