D1.8 Jepsen et al., (2025). Breeding and restoring population of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) to combat the alien invasive species round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) – a case study from The National Aquarium Denmark – Den Blå Planet.

Summary

This study investigates the potential of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) as a biological control method against the invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) in the Baltic Sea. Conducted at The National Aquarium Denmark, the research successfully demonstrated the spawning, hatching, and rearing of turbot larvae in a public aquarium setting, providing a viable approach for restoring wild populations. By utilizing local wild-caught broodstock, the project ensured genetic compatibility, which is crucial for the sustainability of reintroduced fish. The findings highlight that public aquariums can play a significant role in conservation efforts by leveraging existing facilities for breeding programs. The ability to produce viable turbot larvae opens new avenues for managing invasive species, which pose threats to native ecosystems and biodiversity. This research speculates that similar initiatives with other species, should be equally possible. Ultimately, this study underscores the potential for collaborative conservation efforts between research institutions and public aquariums to address ecological challenges posed by invasive species.