American eels have a variety of predators, including:**
-Birds: Birds such as ospreys, eagles, and herons are known to prey on American eels.
-Fish: Fish such as striped bass, bluefish, and northern pike are also known to prey on American eels.
-Mammals: Mammals such as otters, raccoons, and bears can also prey on American eels.
2. Parasites
American eels are also susceptible to a variety of parasites, including:
-Nematodes: Nematodes are a type of roundworm that can infect the intestines of American eels.
-Trematodes: Trematodes are a type of flatworm that can infect the liver and other organs of American eels.
-Cestodes: Cestodes are a type of tapeworm that can infect the intestines of American eels.
3. Disease
American eels are also susceptible to a variety of diseases, including:
-Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections can cause a variety of symptoms in American eels, including skin lesions, ulcers, and internal infections.
-Viral infections: Viral infections can cause a variety of symptoms in American eels, including respiratory problems, nervous system problems, and internal infections.
-Fungal infections: Fungal infections can cause a variety of symptoms in American eels, including skin lesions and internal infections.
4. Habitat loss
Habitat loss is another major threat to American eels. American eels rely on a variety of habitats for different stages of their life cycle, including streams, rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters. Habitat loss can occur when these habitats are filled in, polluted, or otherwise degraded.
5. Overfishing
Overfishing is also a threat to American eels. American eels are caught for food, bait, and the pet trade. Overfishing can reduce the number of American eels available to reproduce, which can lead to population declines.