Anguillid eels have long fascinated biologists, and this book provides a comprehensive update on their biology and ecology, covering taxonomy, phylogeny, evolution, reproduction, feeding, salinity adaptation, life history, recruitment, migration, eel fisheries, conservation, exploitation, and management.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 340 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Anguillid eels have captivated biologists for centuries with their remarkable long-distance migrations between freshwater habitats and their spawning grounds in the vast ocean. This comprehensive book offers a long-awaited update on the biology and ecology of these fascinating creatures, encompassing a wide range of topics related to their biology (taxonomy, phylogeny, evolution, reproduction, feeding, salinity adaptation) and ecology (life history, recruitment, migration). Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the state of eel fisheries, conservation, exploitation, and management.

Anguillid Eels: A Fascinating Journey Through Freshwater and Ocean Realms

Anguillid eels, belonging to the family Anguillidae, have long been a subject of fascination for biologists due to their remarkable long-distance migrations between freshwater habitats and their spawning grounds in the ocean. These eels have a unique life cycle that involves a series of migrations, each lasting several months or even years. Their migrations are driven by a variety of factors, including temperature, salinity, and the availability of food.

Biology and Ecology of Anguillid Eels

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the biology and ecology of anguillid eels. It covers a wide range of topics, including taxonomy, phylogeny, evolution, reproduction, feeding, salinity adaptation, and life history. The taxonomy of anguillid eels is complex, with over 80 species currently recognized. The phylogeny of these eels has been studied extensively, and it has revealed that they are closely related to other eel species, such as the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) and the American eel (Anguilla rostrata).

Anguillid eels have a unique reproductive system that involves internal fertilization. The males produce sperm, which is stored in a specialized organ called the seminal vesicle. The females produce eggs, which are fertilized by the sperm. The eggs are then deposited into the water, where they hatch into larvae. The larvae undergo a series of developmental stages before they become adults.

Anguillid eels are carnivorous fish that feed on a variety of prey, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. They have a specialized mouth that allows them to capture and digest their prey. The salinity of the water is an important factor in their feeding behavior, as they require a certain level of salinity to survive. Anguillid eels can tolerate a wide range of salinity levels, but they prefer to live in freshwater habitats.

Anguillid eels are important to the ecosystem of freshwater habitats. They play a role in the food web by consuming prey that would otherwise be consumed by other fish species. They also help to maintain the balance of nutrients in the water. However, they are also vulnerable to a variety of threats, including overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.

State of Eel Fisheries, Conservation, Exploitation, and Management

The state of eel fisheries, conservation, exploitation, and management is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. Overfishing has been a major threat to eel populations in many parts of the world, and it has led to a decline in the number of eels available for harvest. Pollution has also been a major issue, as it can affect the health of eels and their habitat. Habitat destruction has also been a major issue, as it can reduce the amount of habitat available for eels to spawn and feed.

To address these issues, there have been a variety of conservation measures implemented. These measures include the establishment of marine protected areas, the implementation of fishing regulations, and the promotion of sustainable fishing practices. Marine protected areas provide a safe habitat for eels to spawn and feed, and they can also help to reduce the impact of fishing on eel populations. Fishing regulations can help to reduce the amount of fishing that takes place in eel habitats, and they can also help to ensure that eels are harvested in a sustainable manner. Sustainable fishing practices include the use of selective fishing gear, the use of low-impact fishing methods, and the use of sustainable fishing practices.

In conclusion, anguillid eels are fascinating creatures that have long been a subject of fascination for biologists. Their remarkable long-distance migrations between freshwater habitats and their spawning grounds in the ocean are driven by a variety of factors, and their biology and ecology are complex. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the biology and ecology of anguillid eels, and it highlights the importance of these creatures to the ecosystem of freshwater habitats. However, they are also vulnerable to a variety of threats, and it is important to take action to address these issues. By implementing conservation measures, we can help to ensure that eel populations continue to thrive for generations to come.

Weight: 626g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367783167