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Information
The
major threats facing eels are considered to be commercial
fisheries, habitat loss, chemical pollutants, disease
arising from introduced parasites, and oceanographic
changes. These factors may be operating in tandem and
their impacts may have gradually accrued over time.
The long lifespan and high fat content of eels have
exposed them to relatively high levels of persistent,
bioaccumulating contaminants (e.g., PCBs, mirex, mercury)
over parts of their range. Increased mortality, reduced
reproductive ability and disruption of migratory behavior
are among the many potential effects, but few studies
specifically on eels have been conducted. High levels
of contaminants have prompted human health advisories
concerning eel consumption in some states.
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