Anguillid eels have been one of the major fishes
in riverine and estuarine ecosystems. Also, eels are important as
a food resource in some eastern and western countries. The wild
eel populations have declined sharply in recent years due to water
pollution and reclamation of estuarine habitats. Subsequently, the
catch of glass eels has shown a long-term decrease in Europe, North
America and East Asia. However, it is not yet clear whether this
has been caused by global changes in the ocean-atmospheric system
(affecting larval migration), or human impacts of over-fishing and
environmental disruption (affecting the growing stage of eels).
Therefore, we need to elaborate effective management and research
strategies with the following aims:
- conduct ecological studies to complete our understanding of
their mysterious life cycle; reproductive ecology, oceanic, estuarine
and riverine growth histories
- develop technology for artificial production of glass eels to
meet the demands of aquaculture
- provide specific management recommendations to sustain wild
stocks.
Presentations related to recent scientific research on ecology, aquaculture
technologies and fishery management are solicited. Presentations related
to other anguilliformes are also encouraged. Time will be allotted
at the end of the session for a general discussion of anguillid eel
research and management.