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The European eel is a remarkable species that has witnessed the passage of millions of years, surviving ice ages and the catastrophic asteroid impact that once eliminated the dinosaurs. Despite this impressive historical resilience, the species currently faces a critical threat to its survival in Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland. Consequently, authorities have announced that for the first time, the fishery will be officially closed for the next three years, meaning no yellow eels will be caught during this period. This drastic measure aims to protect a rapidly declining population that has been severely affected by environmental pressures. However, the decision has created a significant dilemma for the local community. Fishermen, whose families have relied on the eel trade for generations, now find their primary source of income halted. They are currently awaiting news regarding potential financial assistance from the government to help them cope with this sudden change. While the economic consequences are undeniable, many scientists argue that such strict interventions are the only way to preserve the species for the future. The life cycle of the European eel is one of nature’s most extraordinary stories. It begins in the Sargasso Sea, located near the United States. From there, tiny larvae drift across the vast Atlantic Ocean for up to three years before arriving in Europe. Upon reaching freshwater locations like Lough Neagh, they develop into yellow eels. In this habitat, they can spend up to two decades feeding on insects and growing at a slow, steady pace. When they eventually reach maturity, they undergo a striking physical transformation into silver eels. This final stage prepares them for the arduous return journey to the ocean. Their eyes expand and their skin pigment changes, allowing them to navigate the dark, deep waters of the sea. Experts often describe them as biological submarines because they do not consume any food during their long swim back to the Sargasso Sea. Their sole objective is to reach their original home to reproduce and start the cycle again. The situation in Northern Ireland serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges involved in conservation. Protecting the natural world often necessitates making difficult choices that directly impact people’s livelihoods. It raises an essential question: how can society find a balance between the immediate needs of workers and the long-term survival of endangered species?

1. What is the primary purpose of the article?

• A.To explain the migration patterns of various Atlantic fish species.
• B.To describe the impact of prehistoric events on modern sea life.
• C.To discuss the conservation of eels and its impact on the community.
• D.To criticize the government’s lack of support for local fishermen.

2. According to the text, why has the fishery in Lough Neagh been closed?

• A.The eels have migrated to a different location in the United States.
• B.To allow the declining eel population to recover from environmental stress.
• C.Local fishermen have decided to pursue more profitable careers.
• D.The eels have reached maturity earlier than expected this year.

3. What can be inferred about the ‘silver eel’ stage of the life cycle?

• A.It is the stage when the eels are most vulnerable to predators.
• B.The eels undergo physical changes specifically designed for deep-sea travel.
• C.Eels in this stage are larger because they eat more before their journey.
• D.It is the longest stage of the European eel’s life cycle.

4. What is the scientists’ attitude toward the closing of the fishery?

• A.They are skeptical about whether the closure will actually help the eels.
• B.They believe it is an essential action despite the economic difficulties it causes.
• C.They are concerned that the three-year period is not long enough.
• D.They feel the government should prioritize the fishermen’s income over the eels.

5. Which word is closest in meaning to ‘assistance’ as used in the second paragraph?

• A.Guidance
• B.Support
• C.Permission
• D.Equipment