PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Authorities in Maine say they're shutting down the state's highly lucrative baby eel fishery early this year due to concerns about illegal sales.

Fishermen seek the elvers in Maine because of the fish's role as seed stock in Asian aquaculture. The Maine Department of Marine Resources says it's shutting down the fishery Thursday, which is two weeks ahead of schedule.

The elver fishery is tightly regulated to deter poaching because of the high value of the baby fish. They're selling for nearly $2,400 per pound at the docks.

The marine department says an investigation by the Maine Marine Patrol revealed some elver dealers in the state have been paying a cash amount that is much less than the typical price for legally harvested eels.

It says criminal charges are expected.