Eel

About

How eel lives

Eels are long-bodied fish that move between rivers, coasts, and oceans during complex life cycles. Some eels migrate thousands of kilometers between feeding waters and spawning areas. River species are shaped by changing water levels, flowing currents, and narrow migration paths.

Conservation

Status and habitat pressure

Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink. Protecting eel also depends on keeping rivers, ocean habitats healthy and connected.

Vulnerable species can decline quickly when habitat loss, climate pressure, or human conflict intensifies.

Quick Facts

Things to notice

• Some eels migrate thousands of kilometers between feeding waters and spawning areas.
• Many fish detect subtle vibrations in the water, helping them react quickly to motion nearby.
• River species are shaped by changing water levels, flowing currents, and narrow migration paths.
• Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink.