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Eli the eel: A mysterious migration - James Prosek

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TEDEd Animation

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They're slippery. They're slithery. And while they totally look like underwater snakes, eels are, in fact, unique fish that can breathe through their skin and even survive out of water. James Prosek tracks the life journey of Eli the Anguilla eel as she (yes, she) travels her mysterious "backward" migration from the sea to fresh water and back again.

Though no one is quite sure how it happens, what is determined only when an eel enters fresh water?

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator James Prosek
  • Director Veronica Wallenberg
  • Animator Johan Sonestedt
  • Narrator Michelle Snow

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