The European eel is critically endangered due to multiple pressures including habitat barriers, overfishing, disease, and climate change, with serious welfare implications throughout its life cycle.
Key Facts
European eel populations have declined by over 95% since the 1970s
Eels are highly sensitive to handling and experience severe stress during capture
The life cycle involves migration from European rivers to the Sargasso Sea to spawn
Glass eel fishing involves collection of millions of tiny juvenile eels
Eels in aquaculture face particularly poor welfare conditions due to their stress sensitivity
Welfare Considerations
Eels are exceptionally sensitive to stress during handling and exhibit extreme physiological responses including extreme cortisol elevation. Their welfare in both wild fisheries and aquaculture is poorly managed. The combination of population collapse and individual welfare concerns makes eel one of the most welfare-and-conservation-critical fish species in European waters.
What You Can Do
Avoid eating European eel products given the critical conservation status
Support habitat improvement projects removing barriers to eel migration
Advocate for stronger eel fishing regulations across European waters
Support research into eel welfare and humane handling methods
Engage with conservation organisations working on eel population recovery