Samples from the backwaters along with specimens of the dead fish have been collected and sent to the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) for laboratory testing – AI image
Thrissur : Mass fish deaths have been reported in the backwaters near Puthur in the district, prompting officials from the fisheries department and panchayat health authorities to inspect the site and collect samples for detailed examination. Fish hatchlings were released into the canal about four years ago.. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kochi | Silver Rate in Kochi | Bank Holidays in Kochi | Public Holidays in Kochi Stay updated with the latest Kochi news.
Other varieties of small fish were still seen moving in the water, indicating that the impact may have been limited to a particular species, Puthur panchayat president Bindu Sethumadhavan said. The results are expected to help determine the exact cause of the fish deaths and whether the water has been contaminated by any harmful substance, assistant director of fisheries Joyni Jacob said. The pH level was also found to be slightly lower than normal, and oxygen level was very low in the water samples, according to Rajesh S, deputy director of fisheries. However, officials said further scientific analysis would be required before drawing any conclusions about the cause of the fish deaths. Panchayat secretary Zareena Majeed said samples from the water bodies in the area had also been sent for testing. Panchayat member Jini Shali said the dead fish had been removed and buried and the canal had been cleaned.
During the preliminary inspection, officials observed that only one variety of freshwater fish — carp — had died. Samples from the backwaters along with specimens of the dead fish have been collected and sent to the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) for laboratory testing. Preliminary observation by officials indicated that the ammonia level in the canal water was higher than the normal range. A portion of the canal had been used for lotus cultivation. Download the TOI App.