Release of Approximately 1,000 Eoreumchi Fry by the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage

Natural Monument and Endangered Wildlife Species
Expectations for Biodiversity Enhancement and Aquatic Ecosystem Health Restoration

On the 11th, the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage released approximately 1,000 artificially hatched young Eoreumchi fish into the Geum River area in Geumsan-gun, Chungnam (436 Banguri, Buri-myeon). This species is a national protected species designated as a Natural Monument and a Class II endangered wild animal. It inhabits the middle and upper reaches of large rivers with clear water and gravel-covered bottoms. The total length ranges from 20 to 40 cm, and it primarily feeds on aquatic insects and crustaceans. The spawning season is from April to May. It is characterized by digging out gravel to lay eggs and then piling the gravel up like a tower.

The Eoreumchi is distributed only in the Geum River, Han River, Imjin River, Yesong River, and upstream of Andong Dam. Among these, the Geum River serves as the southern limit of the Eoreumchi’s habitat, making it a region of high academic value. The National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage has conducted breeding and conservation research in collaboration with the Geum River Basin Environmental Office, Korea Water Resources Corporation, and the Daecheong Lake Conservation Movement Headquarters, artificially hatching about 1,000 fry. This release is expected to contribute to enhancing biodiversity in the Geum River system and restoring the health of the aquatic ecosystem. A representative of the institute stated, “The Eoreumchi is sensitive to environmental changes and has a limited distribution area, placing it at risk of extinction. We plan to continue cooperation and research for the protection of this Natural Monument and the conservation of the ecosystem.”