In 1974, a German fisherman released thousands of baby catfish into a river; 50 years later they are threatening native wildlife | TheBriefWire
In 1974, a German fisherman released thousands of baby catfish into a river; 50 years later they are threatening native wildlife
Published 7 August 2026 ยท europe
In 1974, German biologist Roland Lorkowsky introduced the Wels catfish to Spain's Ebro River, where they've since become a top predator, threatening native wildlife. Their
In 1974, German biologist Roland Lorkowsky introduced the Wels catfish to Spain's Ebro River, where they've since become a top predator, threatening native wildlife. Their large size and aggressive feeding present significant hurdles for conservationists trying to maintain balance. Worsening climate change conditions could facilitate their further invasion into European waters, leading experts to deem eradication efforts nearly impossible.
Published: August 7, 2026 โข 10:50 AM IST ยท Updated: August 7, 2026 โข 11:04 AM ISTBy TheBriefWire Editorial Team
Key points
In 1974, German biologist Roland Lorkowsky introduced the Wels catfish to Spain's Ebro River, where they've since become a top predator, threatening native wildlife.
Their large size and aggressive feeding present significant hurdles for conservationists trying to maintain balance.
Worsening climate change conditions could facilitate their further invasion into European waters, leading experts to deem eradication efforts nearly impossible.