Jeollanam-do Focuses on Restoring Inland Ecosystems and Expanding Fisheries Resources

Release of 1.25 Million Fish Seeds
Including Eight Species Such as Sweetfish and Eel

Officials from the Jeollanam-do Marine Fisheries Science Institute released 1.25 million fish of eight species, including sweetfish and Korean bullhead, into 16 cities and counties including Suncheon City. Provided by Jeollanam-do

The Jeollanam-do Marine Fisheries Science Institute announced that, from April to September, it released 1.25 million high-quality fish seeds of eight species, including sweetfish and Korean bullhead, into public inland waters across 16 cities and counties, including Suncheon City, to restore inland aquatic ecosystems and enhance fisheries resources.

Jeollanam-do possesses the largest inland water area in the country. However, the health of its ecosystems has been gradually deteriorating due to factors such as climate change, the spread of invasive species, and water pollution. In response, the province releases high-quality fish seeds every year, aiming to restore native inland fish species and increase the income of local fishers.

Starting with the initial release of 270,000 sweetfish, the province also released 100,000 eels, 270,000 Chinese mitten crabs, 270,000 catfish, 40,000 Korean perch, 10,000 turtles, 190,000 Korean bullhead, and 100,000 crucian carp, distributing them in appropriate water bodies according to the ecological characteristics of each region.

The released species play a significant role in restoring inland water ecosystems and enhancing fisheries resources. In particular, catfish are recognized as effective in maintaining ecological balance, as they are natural predators that help control invasive species such as bass and bluegill.

Kim Chungnam, Director of the Jeollanam-do Marine Fisheries Science Institute, stated, "By continuously releasing high-quality fish seeds produced in the province, we will contribute to protecting inland aquatic ecosystems and increasing fishers' incomes." He added, "We will continue to focus on restoring native inland fish species and enhancing fisheries resources in line with the characteristics of each region."