Dangerous Guest: How the Amur Chebak Threatens Ukraine‘s Native Fish
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Back in the days of the USSR, a fish called Amur chebak came to Ukraine from the Far East. This type of fish not only took root in our water bodies, but also began to pose a threat to the “indigenous people”.
Vice-rector for scientific work of Dnipro National University named after. Olesya Gonchara, associate professor, candidate of biological sciences, ichthyologist Oleg Marenkov told UNIAN captivating facts about the dangerous fish, and also pointed out how its numbers can be reduced.
When and where did we get this fish? How fast does it reproduce?
The Amur chebak is a small and, at first glance, inconspicuous fish, originally from the Far East. Its homeland is the Amur River basin, which flows in China. This fish ended up in our reservoirs along with the fry of Far Eastern fish – silver carp and grass carp. In the 50-60s of the last century, silver carp and grass carp were very actively imported, grown in ponds and introduced into reservoirs for bioreclamation (fighting algae) and for the growth of fisheries.The Amur chebak simply ended up in our reservoirs along with these fish.
And it is very interesting that in our waters, silver carp and grass carp do not reproduce naturally, do not spawn – they need high temperatures and circular currents, but our conditions suit the Amur chebak, and it reproduces.
These fish live only three years and can already reach sexual maturity in the first year of life. Next year they can spawn two or three times from May to September. A pair of amur chebaks can lay up to a thousand eggs per season, and under favorable conditions, approximately 2-4 fish can reach sexual maturity. This may not seem like much, but every year each pair of Amur chebaks can increase their numbers several times over.
So, the Amur chebak accidentally ended up in our ponds, the reservoirs of the Dnieper, felt great and then began its expansion to other reservoirs – it was transported by the current, swam, people moved it. And thus the Amur chebak spread throughout the waters of ukraine in the 60s.
Why is he dangerous?
The Amur chebak is not a direct predator that will eat all our native fish species, but there is a hidden threat, and it is quite serious. Amur chebaks live in the coastal zone, reproduce quickly and are omnivores. They eat zooplankton,that is,small crustaceans,as well as fish eggs and their fry.And thus, the Amur chebak in natural reservoirs can eat up native species of fish (for example, gudgeon, bitterling, roach, rudd). In some rivers, for example, such as Samara and Volchya, due to the increase in the number of chebak, the number of minnows has decreased.
Don’t Release the Chebak: Why Catching This Small Fish Matters
Many recreational fishermen, especially beginners, practice catch and release, hoping to allow fish to grow larger. However, when it comes to the chebak (also known as bleak or smelt-whiting), a different approach is needed. This small fish is facing population challenges, and keeping your catch is actually beneficial for the overall health of our waterways. Current recreational fishing regulations do not limit the number of chebak you can keep, so harvesting them is permitted and encouraged.
This advice comes from ichthyologist Oleg Marenkov, Vice-Rector for Scientific Work at Dnipro National University, who emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique situation with this species. https://www.unian.net/ecology/chebak-fish-why-it-needs-to-be-caught-as-much-as-possible-and-not-released-12388491.html
Why Keep the Chebak? Understanding the Problem
The instinct to release a small fish is understandable.Many anglers believe letting it go allows it to mature and contribute to future populations. Though, the chebak is different.
* Small Size is Normal: Chebak are naturally a small fish. They don’t grow to be large trophy catches. What might appear as a juvenile is often a fully grown adult.
* Population Imbalance: In many areas, chebak populations are experiencing imbalances. Overpopulation can lead to stunted growth and reduced overall health of the species.
* Food Web Dynamics: Chebak play a role in the food chain, and controlling their numbers can benefit other, more desirable fish species.
What is a Chebak?
The chebak (coregonus lucifuga) is a small, silvery fish belonging to the salmon family. They typically reach lengths of only 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) and weigh less than a pound. They are found in freshwater environments, often schooling in large numbers. identifying features include a small mouth and a relatively slender body. https://www.fishbase.se/summary/Coregonus%20lucifuga
Regulations and Responsible Fishing
Currently, recreational fishing regulations in many regions do not place any restrictions on the number of chebak that can be harvested. This means you are legally permitted to keep your catch.
Though, responsible fishing practices still apply:
* Follow all other fishing regulations: Ensure you have a valid fishing license and adhere to any rules regarding permitted fishing areas and methods.
* Harvest responsibly: While there’s no limit,avoid excessive harvesting in a single location.
* Consider consumption: Chebak are edible and can be a tasty addition to your meal!
Key Takeaways
* Chebak are naturally small fish. Don’t assume they need to grow larger.
* keeping your catch helps manage populations. Removing chebak can improve the health of the ecosystem.
* Regulations allow for harvesting. There are currently no limits on the number of chebak you can keep in many areas.
* Consult local regulations: Always check the specific fishing regulations for the body of water you are fishing in.
By understanding the unique situation with the chebak and adjusting your fishing practices accordingly, you can contribute to the health and sustainability of our fisheries.
Disclaimer: Fishing regulations vary by location. Always consult the official fishing regulations for the specific body of water you are fishing in before harvesting any fish.