Upper Reaches of Limburg Streams Nearly Dry, Bad News for Fish Population

The prolonged heat and drought have left the upper reaches of Limburg's streams critically low, posing a severe threat to the region's fish populations. Jos Eyckens of Likona, an organization focused on nature studies in Limburg, stated that many streams are "practically dry," directly affecting the fish.

Beyond low water levels, the rising temperatures further diminish oxygen content in the water. This is particularly detrimental to rare species like the brook lamprey, which has its largest population in Limburg and primarily inhabits the upper streams of the Kempisch Plateau. Eyckens warned that these fish are "doomed" if water levels continue to drop.

Inventories of fish in these small streams have already been postponed this year due to the dry conditions. While larger streams like the Demer support species such as chubs and carp, even these areas are showing signs of change, with smaller fish being caught than in the past, despite a recovery after a significant fish die-off five years ago attributed to heavy rainfall and flooding.

To combat this crisis, Eyckens advocates for the construction of more fish ladders. These structures can help maintain higher water levels, which he believes would benefit not only the fish but also the surrounding environment by increasing moisture. He emphasized the need for a minimum summer water level in the streams to support aquatic life.