11 August 2018

TIDES PARK: The Eel is back

Nature with special plants and animals that live in and near the Nieuwe Maas and show the significance of the delta, where the river meets the sea. The effect of ebb and flow creates tidal nature along the river bank with animals and plants that go with it. River as a Tidal Park wants to let Rotterdammers experience this tidal nature and organizes strolls at various tidal parks in the Rotterdam region. In this fourth part, the eel is central.

Life cycle

Our eel in the Nieuwe Maas mates in the Sargasso Sea, 6000 km away. Larvae hatched from the eggs can be drifted with the current to our coast in 1 - 3 years. On the way their appearance changes into 'glass eels', small palinks of about 7 cm. Attracted by the sweet lure of the river, the glass eels swim in and grow further in the fresh water. Eels can get very old; the oldest eel in the Netherlands reached the record of 88 years.

The water in the Nassauhaven is regularly monitored. Both young and old eels were found. That means they feel at home in Nassauhaven. This will soon be even better when the stony bank has been transformed into a green oasis of bank and water plants, where glass eels and eels find food and shelter. The Nassauhaven now and soon offers them a safe and pleasant home port.

Cooperation

At Rivier als Getijdenpark, 16 partner organizations work together to strengthen tidal nature. LIFE funding from the EU makes the tidal parks possible.

Would you like to participate in a stroll?

Do you want to discover tidal nature yourself? Which can! ARK Nature Development regularly organizes walking tours. Knowing more?  https://www.ark.eu/

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