From December 25, a ban on catching burbot will come into effect in the fishing grounds of Belarus, lasting until February 28.
From December 25, a ban on catching burbot will come into effect in the fishing grounds of Belarus, lasting until February 28.
Burbot is the only freshwater representative of the cod family. It spawns in small shoals, consisting of a female and several males. Spawning occurs in shallow areas (riffles) with fast currents and sandy or stony bottoms. Spawning takes place from late December to February at water temperatures of around 1-3 degrees Celsius.
During severe frosts, spawning is more active; during thaws, it extends for a month or more. The fecundity of burbot is very high, with large individuals producing a million eggs or more. However, despite this, the survival rate of eggs and larvae is low. A large number of eggs are consumed by other fish (perch, ruff, roach), and some are eaten by burbot itself. The commercial significance of burbot is small due to its low numbers.
For catching burbot during the closed season, administrative liability is imposed in the form of a fine of up to 50 base units, or criminal liability if more than three individuals of this species are caught. In addition, for each burbot caught during the spawning period, 27 base units (621 rubles) must be paid as compensation for environmental damage.
The Lepel Inter-district Inspectorate operates a "hotline" 8(02132) 4-36-85 24/7, where you can report violations of environmental legislation.