New eel disease.

[izzetafox]

Guys, please see the attached photo and text below from our lab in Brampton. For info and a request to let us know if you come across anything like this within your fisheries work.
Cheers
Phil

We have heard that a number of eels are being reported in Scotland in a diseased condition, with mortality also occurring in some instances. This was reported to us from the Dee Rivers Trust, with additional reports on the Spey as well. We have also discussed these cases with colleagues at the government disease labs in Aberdeen who are currently conducting routine diagnostic tests. We will provide an update when we know more.

So far we have had no such reports of similar incidents across England or Wales, however I would like to ask you all to be vigilant and please inform us of any issues. I have attached a picture of one of the eels for reference. As you can see there is significant damage to the skin.

Please keep us informed of any reports or if you have any further queries, please get in touch






Philip Belfield MIFM MCIEEM
Fisheries Technical Specialist Hertfordshire and North London

[bassdrifter]

Hi
I have seen very similar years ago on the river elwy not on every eel just odd ones always thought it was udn before the fungus gets onto it.Hopefully it's not fatal eels have had a bad time all round
.

[martin]

I remember when you couldn't put a maggot bait near the bottom without a "bootlace" swallowing it hook and all
We had the perch disease and then the roach disease, so I guess it's cyclical. Let's hope they come back stronger

Martin