Poor Ayu Catch in Lake Biwako Raises Concerns
The January haul of ayu sweetfish from Lake Biwako was a mere 3% of the average, marking the lowest catch since record-keeping began in 2009. This alarming decline has raised concerns among fishermen and officials alike.
The culprit behind the poor catch is believed to be the scorching heat experienced last summer. This extreme heat likely disrupted the ayu's spawning process, leading to a significant decrease in the number of ayu fry.
The ayu, a beloved fish species in Shiga Prefecture, accounts for roughly half of the total fish catch from Lake Biwako, Japan's largest lake. The fishing season for ayu fry, known as "hiuo," typically begins in December.
Traditionally, fishermen have relied on a maze of netting called "eri" to catch hiuo during the winter and early spring months. However, this year's catch has been abysmal, averaging only 4.3 kilograms per eri. This is a stark contrast to the average catch of 149 kg per eri over the past decade.
The poor catch has had a significant impact on the local fishing industry. Fisheries cooperative associations have been unable to fulfill orders placed by ayu breeders, and shipments to retailers and restaurants have fallen behind.
The Shiga prefectural government is closely monitoring the situation and conducting further studies to determine the exact cause of the poor catch. They are also working to support the affected fishermen and mitigate the impact on the local economy.
While the exact cause of the poor catch remains under investigation, the extreme heat experienced last summer is believed to be a major contributing factor. This highlights the potential impact of climate change on delicate ecosystems and the importance of taking proactive measures to mitigate its effects.