Research interests
One of the main research areas is the ecology and migration of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla), including the assessment of stocking effectiveness, studies of growth, energy reserves and spawning migration, as well as reproductive biology and artificial breeding. Part of the research is also dedicated to estimating eel mortality caused by illegal fishing and poaching, and to identifying the main factors affecting eel survival during the continental phase of its life cycle.
Another important research area is the study of migration in different fish species using telemetry methods, together with the assessment of river ecological connectivity. A substantial part of the work focuses on evaluating the effects of hydropower plants, dams and other artificial barriers on migrating fish. Research includes migration routes and behaviour, migration delays, passage success, fish mortality at hydropower facilities, and the effectiveness of fish passes and other mitigation measures.
Other research interests include recreational and commercial fisheries, long-term monitoring of fish populations, assessment of the ecological status of rivers, lakes, lagoons and coastal waters, the effects of climate change and other human-induced pressures on aquatic ecosystems, as well as invasive and non-native species. Research is carried out in inland waters, the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea, combining field studies, fisheries data analysis, long-term monitoring and experimental research.
A significant part of the work is applied and aimed at supporting science-based fisheries management, aquatic ecosystem conservation and environmental decision-making. This includes research and expert activities related to fish migration, hydropower, river connectivity, fish stocks, ecological status and the management of aquatic biological resources.
In addition to scientific research, activities include popular-science publications, public communication on aquatic ecology and environmental issues, and underwater nature photography. These activities aim to make aquatic science more accessible to the general public and to increase awareness of fish, aquatic ecosystems and ongoing environmental change.
