The pollan faces competition from introduced species such as pike, roach and zebra mussel, and the populations rely on restocking for survival.

The pollan populations are threatened by ecosystem changes such as eutrophication and increases in species, including pike, roach and zebra mussel.

[5] Only the population of Lough Neagh in Northern Ireland remains abundant and supports a small commercial fishery.

[1] The Irish pollan and other members of the Coregonus genus are very like herrings in appearance but the presence of an adipose fin distinguishes them.

[7] In scientific literature and national biodiversity and conservation assessments, the Irish pollan are usually classified within the species Coregonus autumnalis.