Burbot: Conserving the Enigmatic Freshwater Codfish

The burbot is a unique freshwater fish in the Northern Hemisphere, threatened or extinct in different parts of its range. It is a flagship for biodiversity and human benefits in restored river systems. It is essential for fish and fisheries management, conservation, and exploitation, and should be in the libraries of universities and research establishments.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 08 July 2021
Publisher: 5M Books Ltd

The burbot, a remarkable freshwater fish, stands alone in its order, known as the cod-like fishes, inhabiting freshwater environments. It holds the distinction of being the second most widely distributed freshwater fish in the Northern Hemisphere, with its presence varying across diverse regions within this vast paleoarctic range. While some burbot populations face threats of extinction, others thrive, showcasing the resilience of this species. In Britain, burbot populations were driven to extinction in the 1970s, with the last recorded specimen caught in 1969 in Cambridgeshire. However, there has been a growing interest in the potential reintroduction of burbot to Britain, driven by extensive research in recent years.

The burbot's diverse habitat and unique requirements throughout its life stages make it a flagship species for the conservation of restored river systems and the numerous human benefits they provide. Its significance extends beyond its ecological value, as it serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scientists, fisheries managers, conservationists, engineers, and hydrologists. Libraries at universities and research institutions specializing in these fields should have a copy of this book to support their studies and teaching.

Furthermore, anglers and enthusiasts of fishes and natural history will find this book immensely valuable. The burbot's story offers insights into the complexities of freshwater ecosystems, the importance of conservation efforts, and the potential benefits of reintroducing species. By understanding the burbot's ecology and behavior, we can better appreciate the diversity and resilience of our aquatic environments and work towards preserving them for future generations.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789181456