The European eel, Anguilla anguilla, is a migratory fish known for its elongated, snake-like body. Found in European waters, it thrives in diverse habitats, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Notable for its fascinating life cycle, the eel migrates thousands of kilometers from Europe to the Sargasso Sea for breeding.

The European eel (Anguilla anguilla) is native to Europe and North Africa. Its geographical distribution includes most of Europe, extending from Norway in the north to the Mediterranean and northern Africa in the south. It is also found in parts of the North Atlantic Ocean, including the Baltic Sea, Black Sea, and coastal regions of the eastern North Atlantic.

European eels are catadromous, meaning they live in freshwater but migrate to the sea to spawn. They inhabit a wide range of habitats, including rivers, streams, lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters. The species is highly adaptable and can tolerate various salinities and temperatures. They thrive in temperate climates, often found in waters with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 30°C.

European eels occupy an ecological niche as both predator and prey within their ecosystems. During their freshwater phase, they are nocturnal feeders, consuming a diet of invertebrates, fish, and other small aquatic organisms. They play a significant role in nutrient cycling and energy transfer in aquatic ecosystems. Their migratory behavior connects different ecological zones, contributing to genetic diversity and ecological balance.