What specific environmental condition allows *Silurus glanis* to thrive in deep holds during summer stratification?
Answer
High tolerance for low dissolved oxygen levels, known as anoxia.
A key biological trait enabling the Wels catfish to dominate certain challenging habitats is its remarkable adaptation to low dissolved oxygen levels, a condition scientifically termed anoxia. While many other fish species are forced to move out of stagnant summer or stratified winter waters towards shallower, more oxygenated areas, the Wels catfish can remain comfortably situated in deep, murky holds where oxygen is scarce. This physiological advantage allows them to persist in predictable, dark locations year-round, which can also be strategically exploited by knowledgeable anglers.
Related Questions
What is the potential upper limit for the length and approximate lifespan of the Wels catfish?What specific environmental condition allows *Silurus glanis* to thrive in deep holds during summer stratification?How many barbels surround the Wels catfish mouth, and where are the longest pair located relative to the jaws?What primary feature distinguishes the skin of the Wels catfish from many other scaled freshwater fish?What demanding parental duty is specifically assigned to the male Wels catfish during the reproductive phase?Describe the Wels catfish diet components that capture public and scientific attention regarding large prey consumption?In North America, where has the intentional introduction of the Wels catfish raised significant conservation flags regarding established ecosystems?What is the typical coloration pattern observed when viewing the Wels catfish from above versus below?What management approach is typically favored in jurisdictions like the UK for established, non-native Wels catfish populations, contrasting sport fishing goals?What characteristic regarding their teeth aids the Wels catfish in capturing and retaining prey items?