Newsletters
Millions of newly hatched pearl mullet fry have begun their journey back to Lake Van as the species' annual spawning season enters its final days.
The endemic fish, found only in the Lake Van basin, completes its remarkable migration from the lake's alkaline waters to freshwater streams on July 15.
To protect the species during its breeding season, inspection teams coordinated by the Van Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry continue around-the-clock patrols. Gendarmerie, police, municipal officers, and other enforcement units are working together to prevent illegal fishing and ensure the safe return of the juvenile fish to the lake.
As the migration period comes to a close, millions of young fish that recently hatched in freshwater streams are gathering in estuary areas where rivers meet Lake Van.
The fry remain in these zones for a short period to adapt to the lake's unique alkaline environment before continuing their life cycle. Authorities have intensified monitoring efforts to safeguard these vulnerable fish from illegal harvesting.
Muhammet Demir, Head of the Fisheries and Aquatic Products Branch at the Provincial Directorate, said preparations for the annual fishing ban begin a month before it takes effect.
"Before the ban starts, we hold coordination meetings with all relevant institutions and provide training for gendarmerie, police, coast guard, municipal officers, and district personnel," Demir said. "We also carry out awareness campaigns in schools located around Lake Van and its spawning habitats to educate students about the importance of protecting pearl mullet."
Since the fishing ban began on April 15, authorities have imposed administrative fines totaling 2.8 million Turkish lira on 147 individuals for illegal fishing activities. Enforcement teams have also seized 19 tons of illegally caught pearl mullet, seven metal boats and 70 pieces of fishing equipment.
Demir said recent nighttime inspections revealed millions of pearl mullet fry swimming along the shores of Lake Van, demonstrating the success of ongoing conservation efforts.
"The positive impact of these inspections can be seen not only in the increasing number of juvenile fish but also in their growth," he said. "Twenty years ago, pearl mullet typically measured around 17 to 18 centimeters. Today, our measurements show average lengths of 22 to 23 centimeters."
The pearl mullet is the only fish species native to Lake Van and supports the livelihoods of approximately 15,000 people in the region.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
