Lamprey Conservation

Brook Lampreys (Lampetra planeri) spawning at a site in the Lower River Shannon catchment last week.

Brook Lampreys are indicators of good water quality and hydromorphology. Their larvae live buried in silt beds, while adults spawn in clean gravels, relying on riparian cover for protection. In-stream works like dredging, vegetation clearance, or even small weirs can seriously impact their habitats and survival.

Despite their importance, most people have never seen a Brook Lamprey. Hidden for much of their lives, they surface only briefly in spring to spawn and die. But their presence - or absence - quietly tells us a lot about the health of our rivers.

These fascinating and valuable “living fossils” deserve better protection. Safeguarding their habitats means healthier rivers for everyone.