More Pix & info Clear Lake Fish Die Off from CDFW

Post by **WB Staff** » Wed Aug 03, 2016 4:55 am

On Sunday, July 31, residents at Clear Lake woke up to an unpleasant discovery. Thousands of dead fish – carp, catfish, crappie, bluegill and other species – were floating in the shallow water along the shoreline. Further out, a blue-green algae bloom spread over the lake’s surface. CDFW personnel are currently following up on all potential causes of the die-off and will be testing water samples from several different points in the lake; so far, all evidence indicates that the die-off is a natural phenomenon due to the extreme water temperatures (80-88 degrees) we have seen this summer. The warm water causes the naturally-occurring cyanobacteria to multiply, or “bloom,” which in turn uses up the oxygen in the water. The warmer the water, the bigger the bloom -- and the less oxygen for the fish, which then suffocate. The cyanobacteria blooms create oxygen during the day, but they use it up overnight, so they are not adding any oxygen to the water for other aquatic species. The decomposition process even further depletes the oxygen in the water. Please note that people and pets should stay away from bloom areas, as cyanobacteria can pose health risks. Dogs can be particularly susceptible, as they will drink the water and lick their fur after going in the water.