The spawning migration and conservation of smelt Osmerus eperlanus in the River Cree, southwest Scotland

The anadromous smelt Osmerus eperlanus population associated with the River Cree on the Solway Coast, southwest Scotland, is the only one remaining from several which previously occurred in that area. Their spawning migration was studied as a basis for conservation and management proposals. The timing and location of the onset of spawning in February/March was determined by regular inspection of the river bed for smelt eggs. The thermal regime in the lower river during preceding weeks is considered the primary factor in initiating spawning, but prevailing temperature, tide and flow conditions determine exactly where and when. Several local factors must be addressed for future conservation and management, e.g. commercial netting, pollution and the present physico-chemical character of the river. The reintroduction of smelt to other rivers on the Solway Coast should now be seriously considered.