Migrant fish species

12.12.2011

Question for written answer E-012119/2011
to the Commission
Rule 117
Zigmantas Balčytis (S&D)

The second priority area of the first pillar of the EU strategy for the Baltic Sea region concerns the conservation of wildlife areas and biological diversity, including fish stocks.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable reduction in migrant fish stocks caused by the adverse effects of human and biological activity.

It is essential to improve conditions for migration and breeding in order to increase fish stocks (in particular salmon and eel) in the Baltic Sea and internal waters. Baltic salmon and eel, which are considered to be valuable migrant fish species, are traded in large quantities in all Baltic countries. The situation regarding migrant fish populations is particularly complex. According to the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea, the eel population is starting to dip below biological safety limits, while the regeneration of salmon stocks has slowed considerably. Improved natural conditions for migration would be one way of regenerating or building up fish populations naturally.

What measures are currently being adopted and implemented to improve migration and breeding conditions for migrant fish species?

OJ C 180 E, 21/06/2012