European Eel Anguilla anguilla
The European Eel (Anguilla anguilla) makes one of nature’s most remarkable migrations, crossing the Atlantic from its spawning grounds in the Sargasso Sea to spend its adult life in European rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters. Now one of the world’s most threatened fish species, populations have collapsed across the continent due to river barriers, overfishing, and habitat loss. Suffolk’s rivers and estuaries – including the Stour, Orwell, Alde, and Waveney – support eel populations, and targeted eel passes at weirs and sluices are helping restore river connectivity. Ongoing monitoring and habitat management are essential to the species’ future in the county. Image: © Mattia, iNaturalist.
Find out more: Suffolk Wildlife Trust, iNaturalist, Marine Life Information Network, Suffolk LNRS information page
Suffolk’s Priority Freshwater Fish Species
Key
Listed as a conservation priority in Suffolk’s Biodiversity Action Plan.
Closely associated with Suffolk’s landscape and natural identity.
Identified as a key priority for recovery under Suffolk’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
Has a Species of the Month article attached.
