The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Kinneret or Lake Tiberias, is a freshwater lake located in northeast Israel. Situated in the Jordan Rift Valley, it is the lowest freshwater lake on Earth, with its surface fluctuating between 209 and 215 meters below sea level. This body of water holds significant historical and geographical importance, serving as a crossroads for ancient trade routes and a setting for numerous biblical events. Its unique position and freshwater supply have supported human activity for millennia.
Notable Fish Species
The Sea of Galilee is home to a variety of fish, with a total of 27 species documented, including 19 native and 8 introduced types. These species are often categorized into three commercially important groups: tilapia, Kinneret sardines, and barbels.
Several species of tilapia inhabit the lake, including the Galilean tilapia (Sarotherodon galilaeus), blue tilapia (Oreochromis aureus), and redbelly tilapia (Tilapia zillii). These fish, known locally as “musht,” can reach up to 45 centimeters (18 inches) in length and weigh around 2 kilograms (4.5 lbs). A distinct characteristic of some tilapia is their mouthbrooding behavior, where the female protects eggs and fry inside her mouth.
The Kinneret sardine (Acanthobrama terraesanctae), also called Kinneret bleak, is a prominent species unique to the Sea of Galilee. Resembling a small herring, these sardines are caught in large quantities, with tens of tons harvested nightly during peak fishing season.
The lake also contains various carp-like fish known as “biny” or barbels, which include species such as Barbus longiceps and Carasobarbus canis. These fish are characterized by barb-like sensory organs around their mouths. The long-headed barbel can grow quite large, reaching lengths of up to 75 centimeters (30 inches) and weights over 7 kilograms (15 lbs). Other species present include the North African sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and introduced common carp and silver carp, the latter sometimes used for algae control.
The Fish’s Role and Status
Fish populations in the Sea of Galilee are vital to the lake’s ecosystem and regional economy. Tilapia, for example, consume algae, which contributes to maintaining water quality.
For over two millennia, the Sea of Galilee has supported a commercial fishery, contributing to the local economy and tourism. “St. Peter’s Fish” remains a popular dish for tourists visiting the area. Historically, towns like Magdala were centers for processing fish, particularly sardines, which were pickled and shipped.
Fish populations have experienced declines due to factors such as overfishing and environmental changes. For instance, tilapia catches dropped from 270 tonnes in 2005 to 7 tonnes in 2009. Low water levels during drought years have also stressed the lake’s ecology and affected fish spawning grounds. Management efforts have included temporary fishing bans during spawning seasons to allow populations to recover.