"Findet Stichling": This Fish Species Is Disappearing From Lake Constance

A Call to Action for Conservation

The disappearance of the three-spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) from Lake Constance is a cause for concern. This small fish is an important part of the lake's ecosystem, and its decline could have a ripple effect on the entire food chain.

The three-spined stickleback is a small, silvery fish that is found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats. It is an important prey species for larger fish, and it also plays a role in the cycling of nutrients in the lake. The disappearance of the three-spined stickleback from Lake Constance could have a negative impact on the entire ecosystem.

The Causes of the Decline

The decline of the three-spined stickleback in Lake Constance is likely due to a number of factors, including:

• Habitat loss: The three-spined stickleback is a bottom-dwelling fish that prefers shallow, weedy areas. The loss of these habitats due to pollution, development, and climate change has made it difficult for the three-spined stickleback to survive.
• Overfishing: The three-spined stickleback is a popular prey species for larger fish, and it is often caught as bycatch in commercial fishing operations. This has led to a decline in the population of the three-spined stickleback.
• Pollution: The three-spined stickleback is sensitive to pollution, and it is often found in areas with high levels of pollution. This has led to a decline in the population of the three-spined stickleback in Lake Constance.

What Can Be Done?

There are a number of things that can be done to help the three-spined stickleback in Lake Constance. These include:

• Protecting and restoring habitat: The three-spined stickleback needs shallow, weedy areas to survive. Protecting and restoring these habitats is essential for the recovery of the three-spined stickleback.
• Reducing overfishing: The three-spined stickleback is a popular prey species for larger fish, and it is often caught as bycatch in commercial fishing operations. Reducing overfishing will help to protect the three-spined stickleback.
• Reducing pollution: The three-spined stickleback is sensitive to pollution, and it is often found in areas with high levels of pollution. Reducing pollution will help to protect the three-spined stickleback.

The three-spined stickleback is an important part of the Lake Constance ecosystem, and its decline is a cause for concern. By taking steps to protect and restore the three-spined stickleback's habitat, reduce overfishing, and reduce pollution, we can help to ensure the survival of this important species.