Overview
- The first book to cover all aspects of eel-related sciences, i.e., cultural, social and natural sciences
- Comparisons of eel-related topics among countries show the historical link between eels and humankind
- The comprehensive understanding of eels developed in the book will lead to enhanced understanding of the need for conservation of endangered eels
Part of the book series: Humanity and the Sea (HUMSEA)
Access this book
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Other ways to access
Table of contents (11 chapters)
-
Front Matter
-
Back Matter
Keywords
About this book
This book explains much of what is known currently about freshwater eels, focusing on social and cultural aspects as well as science. A wealth of eel-related material is presented by scientists from around the world, including information on eel fishing, resources, distribution, aquaculture, economics, cuisine, environment and ecosystems, idioms, arts and crafts, tradition, legends, mythology, archaeology and even memorial services.
Eels are important as food for humankind and are an interesting model for scientists studying animal migration and reproductive ecology. Their snake-like morphology differentiates them from most other fish, and their unpredictable behaviour that allows them to move over wet land and climb rocks adjacent to waterfalls attracts attention and evokes curiosity. Eels are therefore considered to be enigmatic creatures or metaphysical entities beyond human intelligence; indeed, they have been deified in parts of the world.
In recent decades, however, with global populations of eels in sharp decline, some species face a real threat of extinction, and effective conservation strategies and measures are needed. Comparisons across these issues between various countries provide an image of a long-lasting relationship between eels and humankind, and encourage comprehensive and detailed understanding of eels from the perspectives of social, cultural and natural sciences. By promoting understanding of the close relationship between eels and humans, the broader public is engaged and public awareness of eel importance raised, helping to conserve these unique but endangered fish.
Editors and Affiliations
Bibliographic Information
Book Title: Eels and Humans
Editors: Katsumi Tsukamoto, Mari Kuroki
Series Title: Humanity and the Sea
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-4-431-54529-3
Publisher: Springer Tokyo
eBook Packages: Earth and Environmental Science, Earth and Environmental Science (R0)
Copyright Information: Springer Japan 2014
Hardcover ISBN: 978-4-431-54528-6Published: 12 November 2013
Softcover ISBN: 978-4-431-56337-2Published: 23 August 2016
eBook ISBN: 978-4-431-54529-3Published: 29 October 2013
Series ISSN: 2213-607X
Series E-ISSN: 2213-6088
Edition Number: 1
Number of Pages: XI, 177
Number of Illustrations: 74 b/w illustrations, 81 illustrations in colour
Topics: Marine & Freshwater Sciences, Fish & Wildlife Biology & Management, Freshwater & Marine Ecology, Regional and Cultural Studies