Freshwater fish ecology

Freshwater fish ecology

A healthy fish stock in the Dutch rivers, lakes and delta depends on good policy and management. This requires knowledge of ecology: how do natural processes and human interventions influence the freshwater ecosystem? Wageningen Marine Research studies the behaviour and habitat of fish species such as bream and eel and determines the size of fish stocks. We also study the impact of climate change and environmental development on freshwater fish. With this knowledge, we advise the government, commercial fishery and recreational fishery about developments and measures that benefit freshwater fish and biodiversity.

What we can do for you

We help you find answers

Wageningen Marine Research applies its knowledge in advising on governance and management of aquatic resources. Our researchers have broad expertise in freshwater fish ecology. They can provide you with insight into factors influencing the composition and quality of the fish stock in your specific water body and how it relates to policy objectives such as sustainable fisheries, water management and wildlife.

Moreover, our institute has the expertise to advise on hydrological infrastructural (such as dams, hydropower plants, discharge sluices, fish ways) facilitating fish migration. We have cutting edge equipment and technology at our disposal to study the behaviour of migrating fish.

The trick is to look through the eyes of the fish with human common sense
Joep de Leeuw, senior researcher of fish ecology and inland fisheries

Wageningen Marine Research conducts fish stock research and provides advice for effective fisheries management, contributing to sustainable fisheries.

- Unfortunately, your cookie settings do not allow videos to be displayed. - check your settings

See also