There is a true shrimp explosion happening in Zeeland (but for some, it comes too late)
Something remarkable is happening in our Zeeland waters: since October, a genuine ‘shrimp explosion’ has taken place. No, of course you shouldn’t imagine exploding shrimp, but there has been a huge increase in their usual numbers for this time of year.
And that seems to be good news for quite a few cutter trawlers, which are sailing to Zeeland from all over the country because catches are so plentiful right now. People are even talking about record catches.
Thousands of kilos of shrimp per week
According to marine researcher Willem den Heijen, who explained the situation on Omroep Zeeland, catches of as much as 3,000 to 6,000 kilos of shrimp per week are a boost for the fishermen, who are struggling with sharply increased fuel prices. Cutters from the northern provinces are also now fishing off the Zeeland coast, which he says is far from usual.
Dynamic North Sea
Den Heijen also says that it is not entirely clear what is causing the shrimp explosion, but according to him, the North Sea is highly dynamic. As a result, certain fish species, such as these shrimp, migrate to slightly warmer waters and move to deeper water again when the weather gets colder.
Fish shops have to close
It is not yet possible to say whether the large supply will drive down prices for consumers. In addition, according to the Dutch Association of Fishmongers, the fish shop sector is doing very poorly, and several shops and stalls have had to close down. This is caused by the high purchase prices of fish and packaging materials, high energy prices, and the increased costs of products such as oil and flour (used to fry kibbeling), NOS reports.
Sources: NOS, Omroep Zeeland
Also read:
- Bizarre practices: female shrimp are mutilated to make them lay more eggs
- Oh dear! Almost no fish shop provides the right information about fish
- Divinely brilliant: Ketjap kibbeling
