SHOTLIST VAN, TÜRKİYE (MAY 28, 2025) (ANADOLU-ACCESS ALL) 1. DRONE SHOT OF DELICAY FISH WEIR 2. DRONE SHOT OF STREAM FLOWING 3. DRONE SHOT OF VISITOR WALKING ON WOODEN BRIDGE OVER STREAM 4. VARIOUS DRONE SHOTS OF STREAM AND GULLS IN WATER 5. VARIOUS PEARL MULLETS TRYING TO SWIM UP AS GULLS TRY TO HUNT THEM 6. VARIOUS OF UNDERWATER SHOTS OF PEARL MULLETS SWIMMING 7. DRONE SHOT OF DELICAY FISH WEIR VAN, TÜRKİYE - MAY 28: The annual migration of the pearl mullet, the only fish species inhabiting Türkiye’s saline and alkaline Lake Van, has been documented in an underwater video on Wednesday, May 29. Between April 15 and July 15, the fish embark on a strenuous journey upstream to freshwater streams for breeding, a critical effort to sustain their population. The footage, captured by renowned underwater cinematographer and documentary producer Tahsin Ceylan, showcases the pearl mullets’ relentless struggle against currents and obstacles. Their migration is further complicated by decreasing water levels, which prevent many from reaching upstream breeding grounds. Each year, the Delicay Fish Weir in Ercis district becomes a focal point for this natural spectacle, attracting numerous observers. The fish leap and glide across the water’s surface, battling to advance. However, their journey is fraught with challenges—not only from the environment but also from predators. Seagulls gather in large numbers along the streams, preying on the migrating mullets. Despite these threats, the pearl mullets persist, driven by the instinct to spawn in freshwater. Fishing for pearl mullet is banned during the spawning season to protect the species. After completing their arduous journey, the fish lay their eggs in suitable freshwater spots, ensuring the survival of future generations. Reporting by Yilmaz Kazandioglu Writing by Sibel Uygun