Wildlife

Lamprey: Ancient Fish Needing River Restoration

Sea, river, and brook lampreys are ancient jawless fish whose welfare depends on clean rivers and removal of migration barriers.

Key Facts

Lampreys are among the most ancient vertebrates on Earth predating the dinosaurs
Sea lamprey larvae spend 3 to 7 years buried in river sediment filter feeding
They require fine sediment for larval development and gravel beds for spawning
Brook lamprey spend their entire life in freshwater and never feed as adults
All three UK species are protected and declining in many river systems

Welfare Considerations

Lamprey welfare depends on river water quality and physical connectivity. Pollution that smothers gravel beds eliminates spawning habitat. Weirs and culverts block migration routes preventing adults from reaching spawning grounds. Drainage works and dredging destroy the fine sediment habitats where larvae live. Desiccation during drought can kill large numbers of buried larvae.

What You Can Do

Support fish pass installation at weirs that allows lamprey as well as salmon migration
Advocate for improved water quality standards that protect river sediment habitats
Report barriers to migration in rivers where lampreys are known to be present
Support Environment Agency lamprey surveys that map distribution and identify threats
Encourage sympathetic river management that retains natural sediment processes