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In an effort to aid in the conservation of a critically endangered species, eels are being transferred between loughs in Northern Ireland. The move comes as part of a comprehensive trap and transport program, with hopes that it will contribute to the species’ survival. Dr. Derek Evans, a senior fisheries scientist at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the European eel population has plummeted by 90% since 1983.
Despite the suspension of commercial eel-fishing in Lough Neagh, conservation efforts persist in other areas. The fragile state of the European eel, classified as critically endangered, places it just one level above species like pandas, rhinoceroses, and tigers in terms of conservation priority. According to Dr. Evans, a significant decrease in the eel population has been observed in rivers and lakes across Northern Ireland, prompting the need for immediate action to protect the species.
The process of managing eels spans across Europe, with eels journeying from the Sargasso Sea to freshwater lakes in Europe before returning to the sea to breed. However, challenges remain, including the lack of knowledge regarding their ocean migration and the absence of breeding activity in the Sargasso Sea. Efforts to transport eels from Lower Lough Erne to the sea, in light of the risks posed by hydropower stations, have shown promise in sustaining the species. Dr. Evans stressed the importance of increased support for eel recovery to ensure a stable future for the population.
As part of ongoing conservation initiatives, a team of scientists and researchers are conducting vital research on eels to better understand and protect the species. Additionally, several PhD students funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (Daera) are focusing their efforts on nature-based solutions in Lough Neagh. Through collaborative efforts and dedicated research, these projects aim to safeguard eels and support the long-term sustainability of inland fisheries in Northern Ireland
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