European river lamprey, River Lamprey
Lampetra fluviatilis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_river_lamprey
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
European river lamprey populations have declined significantly due to river regulation and dam construction, which blocks their essential spawning migrations and fragments their habitat. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial discharge degrades water quality in both freshwater spawning areas and estuarine feeding grounds. Habitat modification through river channelization and gravel extraction destroys the specific substrate conditions required for larval development and adult spawning.
Habitat
European river lamprey inhabit coastal waters and estuaries as adults, feeding parasitically on marine fish, before migrating upstream to freshwater rivers and streams for spawning. Larvae burrow in soft sediments of river beds for several years before metamorphosing and returning to marine environments.
Other threatened species in Petromyzontidae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is European river lamprey, River Lamprey classified as Vulnerable?
Where does European river lamprey, River Lamprey live?
What are the main threats to European river lamprey, River Lamprey?
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