SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, Mar. 5 (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Animal Welfare division of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council, in collaboration with the Neotropic Foundation, has released eight specimens of ‘Anguilla anguilla’ also known as European eel into the ponds of García Sanabria Park. This initiative aims to regulate the population of ‘Procambarus fallax virginalis’, commonly referred to as crayfish. Over 400 crayfish have been removed due to their fast reproduction rate, with concerns raised over their invasive impact on the native vegetation.
Carlos Tarife, the Councilor for Animal Welfare, stated that crayfish were introduced into the ponds some time ago, a species known for its high reproductive capacity, with females capable of laying up to 700 eggs. Despite the removal of a significant number of crayfish, their presence still poses a threat to the park’s flora and fauna. It is hoped that this initiative will yield positive results in controlling the crayfish population.
Additionally, measures have been requested to install security cameras in the park area, as well as the Flower Clock area, following incidents of vandalism that have damaged these iconic park features. This request is based on a report prepared by the Neotropic Foundation.
Jaime Urioste, President of the Neotropic Foundation, described the release of eels as a trial run. He clarified that eels are a native species typically found in ravines and are not considered exotic. They do not reproduce in local waters but serve as biological controllers by preying on crayfish larvae before they mature.
European eels are protected species that pose no threat to humans. While the initial plan was to release 50 eels, it was decided to release eight larger specimens to better manage advanced stages of crayfish development. The Neotropic Foundation will conduct regular surveys to monitor the status of both species.
If the crayfish population shows signs of decline over time, the eels will be relocated back to the foundation. Conversely, if the eel population is insufficient, further releases will be considered.
