October 5, 2002
Fish health and Pfiesteria investigations in Turville Creek (Coastal Bays).

The following summarizes on-going investigations during the past several weeks into harmful algal blooms (Pfiesteria). To date, there is no evidence of active toxicity from either of these organisms.

Turville Creek (Coastal Bays): Maryland DNR encountered high percentages of lesioned menhaden in the upper portions of Turville Creek during routine monitoring on September 25. Follow-up monitoring on October 2 also revealed high percentages of lesioned menhaden. Both Pfiesteria species have been identified in association with the lesioned menhaden. One sample, collected on September 25, had elevated levels of P. shumwayae (348 cells / ml) and fish bioassays to test for toxicity have been initiated. Bioassays are typically run for 21 days. As of October 4, the sample had not turned toxic. Details are as follows:

DATE % Lesioned Menhaden Pfiesteria presence
(positive samples / total samples)

9/25

39%

 1 / 2
sample positive for P. shyumwayae elevated levels. Fish bioassay initiated
10/2 35% 2 / 2

Maryland DNR will next sample Turville Creek on Tuesday, October 8.