The Ascent of Elvers in Egyptian Waters

Abstract

IN connexion with Dr. Schmidt's article on the “Breeding Places and Migrations of the Eel” (NATURE, January 13, p. 51), it may be of interest to give the results of further observations upon the arrival and ascent of elvers in Egyptian waters. The records were made at the pumping-station mentioned in Dr. Schmid's article. The station is exceptionally favourable for such observation, since skilled observers were (and are) present day and night (in connexion with other fishery work) throughout the year. There can be, no doubt, therefore, that when elvers were reported absent there were in fact none to be seen. Since the pumping-station ceases to work early in the summer, this fact may bring the ascent artificially to an end; but, as a rule, there are signs that the main run is over before the pumps stop. The numbers transported are given as an indication of the extent of the “runs.”