Mysterious Illness Threatens Endangered Sawfish in Florida Keys
Fishing guides in the Florida Keys have been reporting strange sightings since last fall, with fish behaving in unusual ways that have left experts puzzled. The sightings have escalated to include larger fish like jacks, snook, stingrays, and even sharks swimming in spirals or upside down in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
The situation took a dire turn in January when smalltooth sawfish, an endangered species found only in southernmost Florida, began dying off at unprecedented rates. Dr. Ross Boucek, a biologist with the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, has been leading the investigation into the mysterious ailment affecting the sawfish.
The urgency of the situation is evident as at least 38 sawfish have died so far this year, with potentially only hundreds of breeding females left in the wild. A team of state scientists has been conducting experiments, tagging sawfish, and sampling their blood in an effort to understand and address the issue. Florida lawmakers have allocated $2 million in emergency funds to support these efforts.
One of the leading theories suggests that elevated levels of toxins produced by microalgae near the sea bottom are affecting the neurological systems of fish, particularly sawfish who dwell in these areas. The National Marine Fisheries Service has been working to rescue and rehabilitate distressed sawfish, with more than 150 sick individuals observed since the crisis began.
The situation not only poses a threat to the endangered sawfish population but also impacts the livelihoods of many in the Lower Keys whose jobs are connected to sport fishing. Some fishing guides have seen clients cancel trips out of concern for the safety of the fish they catch.
As scientists continue to investigate the cause of the unusual fish behavior, Dr. Boucek remains dedicated to collecting data and searching for patterns that may provide insight into the situation. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, efforts are ongoing to save the sawfish and protect the delicate ecosystem of the Florida Keys.
