Future tasks for the conservation and sustainable use of Japanese eel: A review of the stocking/restocking of Anguillid eel species

Abstract

　The scale of eel stocking/restocking in Japan has reached a level comparable to that of the domestic annual catch, however, there is limited knowledge regarding the effectiveness and impact of eel stocking/restocking, highlighting the need for further research and investigation. With the aim of contributing to the development of future research on Japanese eel stocking/restocking, we have compiled existing knowledge on the stocking/restocking of Anguillid eel species worldwide. Currently, it is not possible to determine whether eel stocking/restocking contributes to resource recovery through reproduction. While potential effects such as temporarily maintaining and increasing fishery resources and preserving and restoring biodiversity are anticipated, negative impacts such as intensified intra-species competition and the spread of pathogens are also expected.