Ep 9. The Mystery of Eels

Nature season 31 episode 9, "The Mystery of Eels," is a fascinating exploration of one of nature's most mysterious and perplexing creatures. For centuries, eels have confounded scientists and fascinated fishermen, who have long wondered about the secrets of their life cycle and their mysterious migrations from freshwater to the open ocean.

In this episode, viewers will get a close-up look at the world of eels, from their ancient origins to their intriguing behavior and remarkable adaptability. We'll learn about the different species of eel, from the tiny glass eel to the giant moray eel, and discover how they have evolved to survive in a wide range of environments, from the depths of the ocean to the shallows of freshwater streams.

But the real focus of this episode is the mystery that surrounds eels, particularly their enigmatic migrations. Every year, millions of eels make a long and perilous journey from freshwater rivers and streams to the Sargasso Sea, a vast area of the Atlantic Ocean where they spawn and die. No one knows exactly how or why they do this, but scientists believe that the migrations are triggered by lunar and ocean currents, and that they may be guided by a kind of internal compass that eels use to navigate.

To unravel the mystery of eel migrations, the episode takes us on a journey around the world, from the rivers of Europe to the coasts of North America and beyond. We'll meet fishermen and scientists who have dedicated their lives to studying eels, and who have discovered some surprising things about these elusive creatures. We'll see how eel populations have declined in recent years, due to overfishing, pollution and other threats, and learn about the efforts being made to protect and conserve them.

Along the way, viewers will also get a glimpse into the fascinating lives of eels, as we witness their remarkable transformations from tiny glass eels to fully grown adults. We'll see how they hunt and feed, how they adapt to their environments, and how they interact with other species. And we'll hear from experts who explain the science behind eels, and the cutting-edge techniques being used to study them.

Overall, "The Mystery of Eels" is a thought-provoking and captivating episode that sheds light on one of nature's most intriguing creatures. It's a must-watch for anyone with an interest in the natural world, and a reminder of the richness and diversity of life that surrounds us.