Fish tagged in behavioural study

Scientists want to study the migration and feeding habits of fish

Fish stocks in the Tees Barrage are to be electronically tagged as part of a £500,000 study into how they live.

By tracking their movements over the next three years scientists are hoping to learn more about fish migration and feeding habits.

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) is carrying out the research project.

British Waterways (BW), which manages the barrage, wants to protect trout and salmon from foraging seals.

The barrage is operated as a "fish pass" by BW staff who operate locks and the barrage gates to allow migrating fish to pass upstream.

Laurence Morgan, general manager for BW, said: "There are a great many anecdotal views about the impact of the Tees Barrage on fishing, with some anglers saying it has improved while others argue it has declined.

"CEFAS are the leading experts in their field and we are confident that this study will enable them to provide reliable, scientific and indisputable data which can inform the future management of the structure and river."