The massive appearance of dead fish on the beaches of Rocha, Uruguay, has raised concerns among environmental authorities. It involves hundreds of specimens of “freshwater fish” found in the La Palma stream.
This is a recurring phenomenon that has already been recorded in other areas of the Uruguayan coast, but still causes unease.
“The alarm was raised regarding possible causes of contamination by pesticides or toxic algae, as has happened on other occasions and in other areas of the department,” explained the Municipal Environment Department on social media.
## Massive appearance of dead fish in Rocha: lines of investigation
Samples were taken immediately by the Rocha municipality after the detection a few days ago. While some “preliminary conclusions” are already being considered, the cause has not yet been confirmed.
“Days ago, saltwater from the ocean entered due to intense winds blowing from the south for several days. This increased salinity in areas where the wind was favorable, entering the lagoon and watercourses such as the stream,” explained the authorities.
“And with this current, schools of freshwater fish, such as silversides and carps, accumulated without an apparent way out,” they added.
Additionally, water samples were taken from the Laguna de Rocha, one of Uruguay’s tourist attractions. These samples will be analyzed at the Regional University Center of the East of the University of the Republic (CURE) when activities resume.
## Human action?
“The concern and the worst conjectures are generally a reflection of the environmental situation historically experienced in the department,” authorities elaborated in a statement.
“However, not all causes are human-related, and it is important to discern and be objective in order to act. Let’s not fall into the trap of the Boy Who Cried Wolf, where genuine alarm may not be followed by action due to mistaken assumptions,” they added.
“As soon as the laboratory results are available, they will be disclosed. We reiterate our gratitude to those who contacted us to stay informed before expressing unfounded opinions. That is genuine participation in solving the issue,” the message concluded.
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