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American Eel
This is the only species of freshwater eel in North America and once made up over a quarter of the total fish in many Atlantic coastal streams. The American eel has become endangered because of dams and other in-water barriers that prevent access to feeding and spawning grounds. Many are also killed by hydro-electric turbines when migrating to the Sargasso Sea for spawning.
Conservation Status
Endangered
At a Glance
Location
Rivers and estuaries along the Atlantic coastline, Gulf Coast, and Mississippi River
North America, Central America, South America
North America
Habitat
Rivers and estuaries
Diet
Crustaceans, small insects, worms, and fish
