Inquiry made by Wels and Co.: Who besides me takes a dip in the swimming lake?
Article Title: Common Fish Species in Bathing Lakes: Myths and Facts About Catfish and Pike Attacks
In the warmer months, many people flock to freshwater lakes for a refreshing swim. But what about the potential dangers lurking beneath the surface? Fears of attacks by catfish or pike, predatory fish species, are often unfounded, according to Professor Robert Arlinghaus of Berlin's Humboldt University.
Contrary to popular belief, catfish are not known to attack humans. They are bottom dwellers and scavengers, preferring to avoid confrontation. Catfish bites are rare and usually happen only if provoked or accidentally contacted. Pike, another predatory fish species, primarily feed on smaller fish and occasionally small amphibians. Attacks on humans are extremely uncommon.
While both catfish and pike may swim near swimmers, the likelihood of an attack is very low to negligible under normal conditions. Most fish species in bathing lakes are shy and avoid human contact, preferring to stay away from heavily used swimming areas.
In the specific case of the Brombachsee in Middle Franconia, Bavaria, two catfish attacks on bathers occurred in June and July. However, these incidents are rare and typically occur during the two weeks in high summer when the male catfish builds and guards a nest. Catfish nests are usually located in protected, dark areas where people don't swim.
It's important to note that uprooting aquatic plants and disturbing sediment can cloud the water and release nutrients, potentially harming the ecosystem. Trittschaaden on the shore or effects of sunscreen on plankton may have stronger effects on the water ecosystem than just swimming.
At bathing spots, fish often get accustomed to people and swim visibly around them, especially roach and minnows. Entering a body of water disturbs the fish, but the ecological impact is unclear.
In most lakes, particularly in Brandenburg, visibility is poor. It's advisable to enter the water at sandy beaches to avoid accidentally dislodging aquatic plants. When swimming, various fish species such as roach, bass, bream, and even catfish may be present.
So, while catfish and pike are common in many freshwater lakes, including bathing lakes, both species are highly unlikely to attack swimmers, posing minimal risk. Most fish tend to be shy around humans and do not exhibit aggressive biting behavior toward swimmers.
Professor Arlinghaus emphasizes that people should enjoy their time in the water without undue worry. "Fish are an integral part of the ecosystem in our lakes, and they generally pose no threat to swimmers," he says. "It's important to respect the environment and avoid disturbing the aquatic life as much as possible."
References:
- Catfish Facts
- Pike Facts
- Fish Behavior in Bathing Lakes
- Catfish Attacks on Humans
- Pike Attacks on Humans
Science plays a vital role in understanding fish behavior, which is crucial for maintaining the health-and-wellness and safety of swimmers. For instance, misconceptions about catfish and pike attacks can be debunked through research, as these fish species largely avoid human contact under normal circumstances and are not aggressive towards swimmers in the fitness-and-exercise context of swimming in lakes. Sports enthusiasts can rest assured that their lake activities carry minimal risk when it comes to encounters with these predatory fish.
