Jangsu County Releases 800,000 Native Freshwater Snail Larvae

"Restoring River Ecosystems
and Enhancing Aquatic Resources"

Jangsu County in North Jeolla Province released approximately 800,000 native freshwater snail larvae (young freshwater snails) that passed infectious disease inspections into the streams around Janggyemyeon and Cheoncheonmyeon.

Jangsu County released approximately 800,000 native freshwater snail larvae that passed infectious disease inspections into the streams around Janggyemyeon and Cheoncheonmyeon. Provided by Jangsu County

According to the county on the 13th, the freshwater snails released this time are native species produced in the Geumgang River system within Jangsu County. These are healthy individuals measuring at least 0.7 cm that have completed aquatic infectious disease testing.

This release event was organized to create a healthy inland water ecosystem and to protect aquatic resources. It is part of ongoing efforts to restore river ecosystems and enhance aquatic resources.

Freshwater snails feed on organic matter, algae, and animal carcasses in rivers, contributing to water purification. They play an important role in maintaining a healthy river environment and are also widely used as a health food ingredient due to their known pharmacological effects, such as aiding liver function. They are a representative inland aquatic resource.

However, due to recent climate change and illegal harvesting, inland aquatic resources, including freshwater snails, have been rapidly declining, which has increased the importance of resource protection and ecosystem management.

The county is strengthening the protection of freshwater snail resources in accordance with the Inland Fisheries Act. The harvesting of freshwater snails measuring 1.5 cm or less is prohibited. From December 1 each year to February 28 of the following year, there is a ban on harvesting freshwater snails. Violations are subject to imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to 5 million won.

Choi Hunsik, the county governor, stated, "This release is part of our efforts to improve the ecological health of local rivers and restore the self-sustainability of native aquatic resources." He added, "We will continue to release various native aquatic species suited to the characteristics of the region, making every effort to preserve the pristine aquatic ecosystem of Jangsu and enhance aquatic resources."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.