Fish experts puzzling over whitefish die-offs
POCATELLO, Idaho (AP) -- State fisheries biologists are reporting an increase in the number of mountain whitefish dying in eastern Idaho streams and rivers.
Idaho Fish and Game experts say the die-off is troubling and they are counting on the public to help figure out why.
The Idaho State Journal reports that dead fish have turned up in recent weeks on the South Fork of the Snake River and the main stem of the Snake River. Reports of dead whitefish have also come from the Teton and North Fork of the Salmon rivers.
Regional Fisheries Manager Dan Garre says the cause is a mystery. He says it's interesting that the die-off is targeting whitefish typically under 10 inches -- and not trout.
Tissue samples have been sent to a state lab for analysis.
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Information from: Idaho State Journal, http://www.journalnet.com
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