Second proof of reproduction of burbot
On 21 May, INBO researchers caught the first small burbot born and raised in the Kleine Nete valley, more specifically in the “Viersels Gebroekt” area.
This observation proves that investments in water storage in wet valley areas through the Blue Deal programme can also yield results for endangered species. The Viersels Gebroekt is only the second area in Flanders where it has been proven that the burbot is reproducing again.
Burbot disappeared from our waterways in the 1950s and 1960s. The fish used to be widespread in Flemish streams and rivers. Since 2000, INBO has been working with Natuur en Bos, VMM, Natuurpunt, the Province of Antwerp and the Provincial Fisheries Commissions on a recovery programme for burbot. Researchers are breeding burbot in captivity at the Research Centre for Aquatic Fauna in Linkebeek. Since 2005, young burbot have been released annually at various locations in Flanders by Natuur en Bos. In the Viersels Gebroekt, this took place between 2018 and 2021.