What do freshwater eels eat?

Freshwater eels are opportunistic carnivores, meaning they eat a variety of things depending on what's available. Here's a breakdown of their diet:

Main Prey:

* Fish: This is their primary food source, with smaller fish like minnows, shiners, and young bass being favorites.

* Crayfish: Eels are excellent hunters of crayfish, which they can locate and capture using their sharp teeth and powerful jaws.

* Insects: They will readily consume both aquatic insects (larvae, nymphs, and adults) and terrestrial insects that fall into the water.

Other Food Sources:

* Amphibians: Frogs, tadpoles, and salamanders are also part of their diet.

* Worms: Earthworms and other aquatic worms provide a nutritious source of food.

* Crustaceans: Small shrimp and other crustaceans are also eaten when available.

* Carrion: Eels are scavengers and will scavenge on dead fish or other animals.

Hunting Techniques:

* Ambush predators: Eels often lie hidden in vegetation or under rocks, waiting to ambush their prey.

* Active hunters: They can also actively search for food, using their sense of smell and touch to locate prey.

* Powerful jaws: Their jaws are strong enough to crush the shells of crayfish and other hard-shelled invertebrates.

It's important to remember that the exact diet of a freshwater eel can vary depending on its size, location, and the availability of prey in its environment.