06-28-2004, 07:37 PM
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SALT RIVER LAKES, AZ —Thousands of fish are dying in several lakes along the Salt River because of increased algae fed by ash runoff from wildfires and warm temperatures.
Officials say a strain of toxic blue-green algae called cylindrospermopsis raciborskii is most likely killing the fish. The algae forms in clumps or bands 2-6 feet below the surface in slow moving or still water, making the water look green or foamy.
Die-offs are affecting shad, largemouth bass, walleyes, channel catfish and large flathead catfish. Authorities say they’re looking for possible solutions and are hesitant about killing the algae, because doing so would release toxins into the water and possibly kill more fish.
Health officials say the algae in the lakes doesn’t pose a health risk to the public.
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SALT RIVER LAKES, AZ —Thousands of fish are dying in several lakes along the Salt River because of increased algae fed by ash runoff from wildfires and warm temperatures.
Officials say a strain of toxic blue-green algae called cylindrospermopsis raciborskii is most likely killing the fish. The algae forms in clumps or bands 2-6 feet below the surface in slow moving or still water, making the water look green or foamy.
Die-offs are affecting shad, largemouth bass, walleyes, channel catfish and large flathead catfish. Authorities say they’re looking for possible solutions and are hesitant about killing the algae, because doing so would release toxins into the water and possibly kill more fish.
Health officials say the algae in the lakes doesn’t pose a health risk to the public.
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