Abstract
Summary Objective The overall aim of this project is to describe the major ingredients of baits introduced into surface waters during angling practices, to quantify their potential impact on freshwater ecosystems and to advise policy customers on the implications for fish stocks and fish welfare. The principal concern is the unregulated introduction into rivers and lakes of angling baits that may contain chemicals and pathogens (e.g. originating from biological material) that could have adverse effects on key stages in the life cycle of fish such as reproduction and migration. In particular, there is aneed to determine whether there is likely to be a requirement for future regulation of baits and their ingredients and whether other management measures may be required in order to conserve and safeguard salmonid populations and associated fisheries. Key Customer Purpose The information derived from this project will be used to advise policy customers on a previously unconsidered source of environmental contaminants (angling baits) and to assess their potential impacts, including how these contaminants may affect fish populations through the disruption of specific biological processes. The results will be used by policy customers in Defra and by their scientific advisers, as well as other fisheries/environmental management authorities (e.g. Environment Agency) and stakeholders (e.g. angling clubs). The information will assist in making decisions regarding the management of angling practices and the conservation of freshwater fish populations, including rare and endangered species. The study will also support the implementation of the Water Framework Directive through an understanding of the role and impact of different sources of pollutants within the aquatic ecosystem.
United Kingdom