Fisch-Alarm im Urlaubsparadies: Monster-Welse am Gardasee
Munich – A recent alarming trend has emerged in the picturesque holiday destination of Gardasee, Italy. Giant catfish, known as Wels, have been causing havoc in the waters, preying on everything in sight and threatening the local ecosystem. These massive creatures, some weighing up to 80 kilograms, have been introduced into the lakes by anglers and are now wreaking havoc on the local fish population.
According to experts, the presence of these monstrous creatures poses a threat not only to the natural balance of the lakes but also to the safety of visitors. Marco P., an experienced diver, explains, „While these fish may not be solely responsible for the ecological issues faced by the Gardasee, their presence, combined with other factors such as pollution and illegal fishing practices, has led to a decline in native fish populations.“
In response to this growing problem, a team of 45 fishermen has recently launched an initiative to reduce the number of Wels in the Gardasee. Marco P. highlights the urgency of the situation, stating, „In the past six years, the number of Wels caught has increased significantly, with some weighing as much as 80 kilograms. These apex predators have no natural enemies and pose a serious threat to the local ecosystem.“
The issue of monster catfish is not unique to Italy, as similar incidents have been reported in Germany as well. Recent reports of Wels attacking ducks and even swallowing a turtle have raised concerns about the safety of local lakes and rivers. While the idea of these giant fish posing a threat to humans may seem far-fetched, experts assure the public that such encounters are extremely rare.
One of the factors contributing to the rapid increase in Wels populations is the impact of climate change. Warmer temperatures have created ideal conditions for these warm-water fish to thrive and reproduce, leading to a surge in their numbers. In response to this growing issue, fishing regulations have been adjusted in many regions to allow for the year-round removal of Wels by anglers.
As the presence of these monster catfish continues to raise concerns among locals and visitors alike, efforts are being made to address the situation and ensure the safety of the lakes‘ ecosystems. With the combined efforts of fishermen, divers, and conservationists, steps are being taken to control the Wels population and prevent further damage to the fragile aquatic environment.