Eel

Eels are captivating, elongated fish that come in a wide array of sizes, from as small as 5 centimeters to as long as 4 meters. Their weight can vary significantly as well, ranging from 30 grams to over 25 kilograms. Unlike many other fish, eels usually lack pelvic and pectoral fins. Instead, their dorsal and anal fins are fused with their tail fin, giving them a distinctive appearance.

These slippery creatures predominantly inhabit shallow waters, where they prefer to burrow into sand, mud, or rocks. Some eels are nocturnal, being more active during the night. While many eels reside in the ocean, certain species are found in freshwater, although they always return to the sea to breed.

One interesting and somewhat alarming fact about eels is that their blood is toxic to mammals, including humans. However, this should not be a major concern because cooking and digestion destroy the poison. Eel blood serum has even been utilized in Nobel Prize-winning research on anaphylaxis. Nevertheless, those who observe certain religious dietary laws, such as Kashrut in Judaism or specific interpretations of the Old Testament, might be prohibited from consuming eels.

Eels are quite popular in various cuisines around the world. In Japan, freshwater eels (unagi) and marine eels (anago) are culinary staples. They are also enjoyed in Chinese, Korean, European, and American dishes, prepared in numerous delicious ways. However, sustainability concerns have emerged due to overfishing. Organizations such as Greenpeace have flagged American, European, and Japanese eels as being at high risk.

Historically, eels were an affordable and nutritious food source, especially in London. The Thames River was once abundant with eels, making them a staple for the poor. This led to the creation of "Eel Pie & Mash Houses" in the 18th century. Astonishingly, some of these shops, like M Manze, have been around since 1902 and are still in operation today.

Eels are more than just a culinary delight; they play a significant role in various cultures and ecosystems. However, they face serious threats due to overfishing and habitat degradation. It is imperative to consider these factors to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy and benefit from these remarkable fish.