Monitoring by Md DNR for Pfiesteria presence and activity in the Chesapeake and Coastal bays has continued since January 2002. As of June 27th there were 253 routine samples collected by Maryland DNR and analyzed with a genetic probe by Dr. David Oldachs lab at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute. Pfiesteria was found in 24 (9%) of the samples. Non-toxic Pfiesteria piscicida has been found in Newport Bay and Marshall Creek in the Coastal Bays, and Middle River, Chicamacomico River, Transquaking River, Manokin River and the Magothy River in the Chesapeake Bay (Table 1). Pfiesteria shumwayae has not been detected in the water column in 2002.

Table 1. Results of Routine Pfiesteria sampling between January 1 and June 27, 2002, Chesapeake and Coastal Bays. (Total samples collected = 253).

Seven rapid response samples have been collected as part of fish health investigations. None of the rapid response samples were positive, and fish health problems/kills have been attributed to factors other than Pfiesteria.