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Individual-based model of juvenile eel movement parametrized with computational fluid dynamics-derived flow fields
Thomas E Padgett1, Robert E Thomas2, Duncan J Borman3
1Centre for Doctoral Training in Fluid Dynamics, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
Royal Society Open Science
|March 29, 2020
Summary
This study models eel pass flow dynamics to improve upstream migration for European eels (Anguilla anguilla). Individual-based models show passage efficiency is best with shallow slopes, low water flow, and larger eels.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Fluid Dynamics
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- European eel populations face significant declines due to in-stream barriers hindering upstream migration.
- Eel passes with studded tiles are used to mitigate barrier impacts on juvenile eel (elver) migration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate flow fields within studded eel tiles.
- To model elver swimming performance and upstream passage efficiency using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and agent-based models.
- To provide data-driven recommendations for optimizing eel pass design.
Main Methods:
- Validated a CFD model of studded eel tiles against published data.
- Computed 3D flow fields for eel passes under various installation angles and discharges.
- Employed cellular automata (CA) and individual-based models (IBMs) to simulate elver passage efficiency for different elver sizes.
Main Results:
- The IBM approximated measured passage efficiencies more accurately than the CA model.
- Optimal passage efficiency was observed for shallow slopes, low discharges, and larger elvers.
- Results were synthesized into a graphic to aid practitioners in eel pass design.
Conclusions:
- Computational modeling provides valuable insights into eel pass hydraulics and elver behavior.
- Design parameters such as slope, discharge, and substrate can significantly influence passage success.
- This research offers practical guidance for enhancing the effectiveness of eel passes and supporting eel conservation efforts.
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