Eels

300 BCE - present

More than 800 species of eels exist throughout the world. Eels live in both fresh and saltwater, and many migrate between the two when transitioning into their adult lives. Namely, European and American Eels are among these catadromous varieties. Adult eels were once an exceptionally abundant species. For centuries, Europeans depended on them as a food source and a currency. The birth cycle of an eel has remained a mystery to scientists for centuries. Only recent technologies have allowed researchers to observe portions of the animal’s instinctual migratory patterns. This lack of understanding prevents researchers from successfully rehabilitating certain eel populations throughout the world. Although many individuals and organizations are working tirelessly to maintain the species, scientists worry that the eel will never recover from its “critically endangered” status.

Most Pressing Issues

Overfishing

Overfishing is one of the primary causes of the endangerment of eels. For years, fishing gear has been upgraded to target eels at every stage of their life. Artificial electric currents, specialized netting, and extensive baiting methods have all been used to capitalize on the behavioral patterns of eels. Since it was named, “critically endangered,” government authorities have attempted to place restrictions on eel fishing, but demand remains high, and illegal export operations continue to deplete the populations. Eels are now ranked among the worst food choices at restaurants due to the detrimental impacts of the fishing industry.

Human development

Industrial development poses several threats to the remaining eel population. Construction of hydraulic energy systems obstruct eel migratory patterns. Turbines can injure the eel when attempting to pass through the blades. Dams delay eels as they search for way to move downstream, thus depleting its reserved energy required to travel it to its breeding grounds. Additionally, maritime noise pollution from traveling ships interferes with the eel’s internal behavioral response. The loud noises leave them confused and vulnerable to predators.

Climate change

Ocean warming and acidification threaten migratory patterns of many eel species. As carbon dioxide emissions increase, seawater chemistry continues to change alongside the atmosphere. These developments are prohibiting the natural cues which tell eels when migration season has begun. As a result, these instinctual patterns are altered, and eels may die without ever reproducing. Additionally, these oceanic chemical changes mutate the eels at their larval stage, negatively affecting their senses and survival instincts.