Gwyniad facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gwyniad |
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| A gwyniad caught in 1904 | |
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| Scientific classification |
The gwyniad (Coregonus pennantii) is a type of freshwater whitefish. It lives only in Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) in northern Wales. This makes it a special fish found in very few places.
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What is the Gwyniad?
The gwyniad is a fish that belongs to a group called Coregonus. This group includes many types of whitefish. Scientists sometimes disagree on how to classify the gwyniad.
How Scientists Classify the Gwyniad
Some experts think the gwyniad is a unique species. They call it Coregonus pennantii. Other scientists believe it might be a type of common whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus). A study in 2012 looked closely at the gwyniad. It did not find strong proof that it is a separate species. However, important groups like FishBase and the IUCN still list it as its own species, C. pennantii.
Where Does the Gwyniad Live?
The gwyniad is native to Bala Lake in Wales. This means it has lived there naturally for a very long time. Bala Lake is a large freshwater lake. It is an important home for many different animals and plants.
Why is the Gwyniad in Danger?
The gwyniad population is facing serious threats. Its numbers are decreasing. This is why it is listed as "Critically Endangered" by the IUCN.
Threats to the Gwyniad's Home
One big problem is the quality of the water in Bala Lake. The water is becoming less clean. This makes it harder for the gwyniad to survive. Pollution can harm fish and their food sources.
New Fish in the Lake
Another danger comes from a fish called the ruffe. This fish was brought into Bala Lake in the 1980s. The ruffe is not native to the lake. It eats the eggs and young fish (called fry) of the gwyniad. This makes it very difficult for new gwyniad to grow up.
Helping the Gwyniad Survive
People are working to protect the gwyniad. They want to make sure this unique fish does not disappear.
Moving Gwyniad Eggs
One way to help is by moving eggs to a safer place. Between 2003 and 2007, scientists moved gwyniad eggs. They took them from Bala Lake to Llyn Arenig Fawr. This is another lake nearby. The goal was to start a new population there. This helps spread the risk if something bad happens in Bala Lake.
