Eels have vanished from critical parts of Somerset Levels, DNA tests show

Experts shocked as analysis finds no traces of eel DNA in area once teeming with the endangered fish

Eel experts say they are shocked to find no evidence of the animal in the network of drainage ditches that make up its traditional habitats in the Somerset Levels, which once teemed with the critically endangered fish.

DNA sampling by the Sustainable Eel Group and Somerset Eel Recovery Project in the drainage ditches found no traces of eel DNA.