Three hybrid fish species found in Irish waters last year
According to a report by Inland Fisheries Ireland on its on fish monitoring programme, 19 fish species, and two types of hybrids were recorded in 26 lakes. Eel was the most common species recorded, followed by brown trout, perch, roach, and pike.
In general, salmon, brown trout, sea trout, and Arctic char were the dominant species in the North, West, and South-West. Perch were recorded for the first time in a lake in Donegal. The introduction was illegal and the source was unknown and further investigation will be undertaken by the agency.
According to the report, 62% of lakes were classified as “good” or of better status.
A total of 14 fish species and one type of hybrid (roach x bream) were recorded in 70 river sites (or 50 water bodies) last year. Brown trout was the most common fish species recorded, followed by salmon, eel, stone loach, minnow, and three-spined stickleback. Some 60% of river sites were classified as ‘good’ or better status.
A total of 50 fish species were recorded across two transitional waters. The highest number of species recorded in a water body was 29, in the Lower Shannon Estuary. Flounder and sand goby were the most widespread species, while sprat was the most abundant.
