A day for freshwater crucian carp

Today, and February 7th annually, is Funa Day (フナの日). Funa, belong to the carp family. I believe they are called crucian carp in English. They thrive in calm freshwater environments such as rivers, ponds and irrigation canals. They resemble koi but lack barbels and have a deeper body shape. However, it is quite difficult to distinguish between the different type of carp.

The commemorative day for crucian carp was created by the Funa Kanroni Shop Association in Koga City, Ibaraki. Koga City is known for its crucian carp that swim in the Watarase River. "Funa Kanroni", which is sweet simmered crucian carp, is a specialty of the area. Funa, Crucian Carp, have been familiar to people since ancient times, appearing in classical literature like the Manyōshū and Konjaku Monogatari.