Overview
- Volunteers and the Rheinischer Fischereiverband have recovered hundreds of mature silver eels since March 13, many showing deep, mechanically consistent cuts.
- About 30 to 40 carcasses will be sent to a university for forensic analysis to determine origin and where injuries were sustained.
- Experts cite recent high water during eel migration and probable contact with hydropower infrastructure as leading explanations, with pumps or ship propellers also under review.
- The association reports losses above typical years and has sought action from NRW Environment Minister Oliver Krischer over inadequate fish protection at plants.
- Comparable mass finds were reported earlier this year on Swiss sections of the Rhine near hydropower sites, highlighting regional risks to the already depleted eel population.