Korean Native Fish Conservation

Protecting Korea's Native Freshwater Species: The Eoreumchi

1. Project Background 

The Eoreumchi is a freshwater fish species endemic to Korea. It is designated as Natural Monument No. 259 and classified as a Class II Endangered Wildlife Species, making it one of Korea's most valuable native freshwater animals.

During the spring breeding season (April–May), the Eoreumchi displays a remarkable nesting behaviour by carrying gravel and sand in its mouth to build spawning mounds measuring 5–18 cm in height, where it protects its eggs.

However, habitat loss and environmental change have led to a significant decline in its population, making conservation efforts more important than ever.

SEA LIFE COEX is committed to helping this remarkable native species return to Korea's rivers for generations to come.

2. Conservation Activities & Collaborative Research

Inspired by the conservation values of the SEA LIFE Trust, SEA LIFE COEX is committed not only to protecting marine life but also to conserving Korea's freshwater ecosystems.

• Partnership with Experts: Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Inland Fisheries Research Institute of the National Institute of Fisheries Science (NIFS), SEA LIFE COEX carries out systematic conservation activities and ecological research on freshwater species.

• Full Life-Cycle Research: Together, we study every stage of the Eoreumchi's life cycle, from juvenile development to adult spawning. Using advanced water temperature control systems and expert animal care techniques, we continue to research effective breeding methods and gain a deeper understanding of the species' unique spawning mound-building behaviour.

• Restoring Freshwater Populations (Release Programme): SEA LIFE COEX supports freshwater ecosystem restoration by releasing healthy adult Eoreumchi, raised through our expert animal care programme, back into their natural habitats. On 25 September 2024, we participated in an official release programme for the conservation of Eoreumchi in the Geum River, contributing to the recovery of freshwater fish populations and the conservation of biodiversity.

3. Eoreumchi Conservation at a Glance