The Douro is home to a vibrant array of aquatic life.There are many inhabitants of its waters,and fish play a central role in maintaining the ecological balance of the river. .
Some of the prominent fish species in the Douro include:
Iberian Barbel (Luciobarbus bocagei): Native to the Iberian Peninsula, the Iberian Barbel can be recognized by its elongated body and characteristic barbels – whisker-like sensory organs – near its mouth.
Northern Straight-mouth Nase (Pseudochondrostoma duriense): This species is endemic to the Douro River. It has a slender body and is primarily found in fast-flowing waters of the river.
Iberian Chub (Squalius pyrenaicus): A small to medium-sized fish, the Iberian Chub is another species native to the region. It's a resilient species known to adapt to a variety of water conditions.
European Eel (Anguilla anguilla): With its snake-like appearance, the European Eel is a fascinating migratory fish. They are born in the Sargasso Sea and travel thousands of miles to freshwater rivers, including the Douro, where they live before returning to the sea to breed.
Brown Trout (Salmo trutta): A favorite among anglers, the Brown Trout is a predatory fish known for its beautiful spotted appearance and spirited fight when hooked.
Iberian Nase (Pseudochondrostoma polylepis): Similar to the Northern Straight-mouth Nase, this species is also native to the Iberian Peninsula and thrives in the fast-moving waters of the Douro.
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