TO Utrechtin the Netherlands, an innovative was introduced bell for fish designed to help the migration of fish through an important lock, the Weerdsluis. This unique initiative, which began in 2021, has seen great success and continues to earn popularity.
Every year, between March and May, spectators from all over the world can interact with the system via a live camerawhich shows the fish trying to cross the lock. When spectators see the fish, pressing a button, They send a signal to the guardians of the lock to open the gate and allow fish to continue their journey.
Weerdsluis is a crucial passage for different fish species, such as sea bream, pike and sea bass, which migrate every year to reproduce. Without the timely opening of the lock, the fish risk get trapped and not to be able to complete their journey, becoming easy prey for predators.
Excellent impact on the environment
The bell for fish was conceived by two ecologists, Anne Nijs and Mark Van Heukelumlike a creative solution to this problem. Thanks to its ability to involve people globally, the initiative has become a real online phenomenonattracting millions of visitors.
This operation also has a positive impact on the environment. Fish contribute to maintaining the ecological balance of water, feeding on algae and small organisms. In addition, some species of fish are water quality indicators: If they thrive, it means that the water is clean and well oxygenated. The underwater camera allows ecologists to monitor the variety and behavior of fish species, providing Useful data to improve the management of water resources in the region.
The success of the bell was extraordinary, with 2.7 million unique visitors last yearfrom all over the world, from America to Brazil, to New Zealand. The initiative has found a vast following on social media, with many users enthusiastic to participate in this ecological cause. People who follow the flow of fish migration They share their enthusiasm on platforms like X and Tiktokthus contributing to global awareness on the issue of environmental conservation. You can also see the live images by clicking on this link.
