Weatherfish now also spotted in West Flanders!
Following the recent and remarkable discovery of relict populations of weatherfish in the Leie and Scheldt valleys near Ghent (2023), expectations were high for additional eDNA research. This study took place last summer upstream from both locations, towards the French border. And indeed, we also found traces of the species in the Avelgem Scheldemeersen. This is the first confirmed presence of weatherfish in West Flanders ever! This confirms the presence of weatherfish in all Flemish provinces. This is a boost for the species protection programme (SBP) that has been rolled out in Flanders for weatherfish since 2021.
Until recently, the presence of weatherfish was only known in a few places in Flanders. These were the Lossing with adjacent marshlands near Molenbeersel (Limburg), the Demer Valley between Hasselt and Diest (Limburg & Flemish Brabant) and a few marshlands along the Wamp in Arendonk (Antwerp). Due to its hidden lifestyle (nocturnal) and preferred habitat (marshes), this fish species is particularly difficult to catch. That is why the SBP decided to map the species accurately using the innovative and highly accurate eDNA technique. This has already led to many unexpected results. The species appears to be more widespread in Flanders than previously thought.
The next step is to improve habitat quality and connectivity in our watercourses. The species will also be genetically supported through a breeding and release programme, as previous INBO research has shown that the Flemish populations are highly susceptible to inbreeding. The weatherfish benefits greatly from the recent rewetting policy (Blue Deal) and acts as a true indicator species for more natural water management in the valley areas.
Jeroen Van Wichelen, Rudi Yseboodt (ANB), Rein Brys, Johan Auwerx
Above: Avelgemse Scheldemeersen (photo Yves Adams - Vildaphoto)
