Who else, apart from Wels, enjoys a dip in the swimming lake?
Article Title: Professor Dispels Fears of Fish Attacks in Bathing Lakes
In a recent discussion, Professor Robert Arlinghaus, a fisheries expert from Humboldt University in Berlin, addressed concerns about potential attacks by predatory fish in bathing lakes.
Contrary to popular belief, the chances of being attacked by fish such as catfish or pike are extremely low. Catfish, for instance, have tiny bristle-like teeth, not large, dangerous ones. Pike do not attack underwater or swim towards bathers.
Professor Arlinghaus explained that while various species of fish, including roach, pike, bream, and catfish, may be present in bathing lakes, attacks on swimmers are rare. Catfish attacks usually occur only under specific circumstances, such as during the catfish spawning season when males guard and defend their nests.
In such cases, they may attack swimmers' legs if perceived as a threat to their offspring. However, the risk of serious injury is low since catfish have brush-like teeth, not sharp ones.
Catfish usually stay at the bottom of lakes and rivers and avoid areas with many bathers. During summer months, they may come closer to shore near their nests. Pike may be found lurking in reeds or underwater plants, watching swimmers, but attacks on humans are not a concern in this context and are generally considered very uncommon.
Visitors to bathing lakes can take steps to minimise disturbance to fish. It's advisable to avoid large clusters of aquatic plants and enter the water at sandy beach areas. Aquatic plants serve as important fish habitats and are crucial for the ecosystem.
In cases where attacks have occurred, such as the two incidents at the Brombachsee in Middle Franconia, Bavaria, in June and July, the catfish used bathing islands that provided shade for its nest.
It's also worth noting that animals in lakes have a certain avoidance behavior, keeping a distance from swimmers. At bathing spots, common fish like roach and minnows may swim visibly around humans.
In conclusion, while it's essential to respect and protect aquatic life, fears of attacks by predatory fish like catfish and pike in bathing lakes are largely unfounded. By taking simple precautions and understanding the behaviour of these creatures, everyone can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience at the lake.
[1] For more information on fish behaviour and sustainable management of fish stocks, visit Professor Robert Arlinghaus's research at Humboldt University.
- While engaging in a health-and-wellness activity like swimming in a lake, it's interesting to know that the science of fisheries has dispelled concerns about attacks by predatory fish, such as catfish and pike.
- In the realm of fitness-and-exercise, one might be concerned about the presence of fish in the water, but it's worthy to note that sports like fishing are usually low-risk when it comes to encounters with dangerous fish like catfish or pike.
- After a day of sports activities by the lake, one might consider exploring a new interest in sports betting on fishing tournaments, as the risk of serious injuries from fish attacks is quite low.