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September 29, 2000 For more information, contact John Schneider, Division Water Resources (302) 739-4590 or Melinda Carl, Information and Education Office at (302) 739-4506. Rare Microorganism Reportedly Found in State Waters Could Have Been Contributing Factor In Summer Fish KillsDNREC officials today received a laboratory report identifying a potentially toxic microorganism that has never been found this far north in the United States. Chattonella verruculosa has been associated with red tides, but this is the first time scientists have concluded it to be toxic. Laboratory tests were done by the Toxicological Center at the University of North Carolina in Wilmington. The samples tested were collected during August from Bald Eagle Creek, a tributary of Rehoboth Bay and from an ocean beach near the Indian River Inlet. The toxin was found in both samples. Today's test results came from samples collected by concerned citizens who are members of the Delaware Chapter of the Surfrider's Foundation. Their samples were sent to the laboratory in North Carolina where testing for the Chattonella organism was conducted. DNREC also collected samples from the same locations during the same time frame and an analysis by the Florida Marine Research Institute did not find this organism. Chattonella verruculosa has the potential to cause human health symptoms such as upper respiratory irritation, watery eyes and itching skin. Anyone experiencing these symptoms after having had contact with waters in these areas may report them to the Division of Public Health at (302) 739-5617. Microorganisms such as this may have been a contributing factor in some of this summer's fish kills in the Inland Bays. In response to today's laboratory results, DNREC will immediately begin collecting water and shellfish for further testing. Previously collected and preserved samples from this summer will also be sent to appropriate laboratories to determine if this organism is present. Department scientists will consult with other researchers regarding today's report. -30- Document Number 40-01/00/09/46 |
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