Lab results: Herpes virus killed Lake Mohave carp

By Mary Manning

Monday, June 8, 2009 | 7:02 p.m.

Laboratory test results indicate that the Koi herpes virus was the primary cause of a Lake Mohave carp die-off last month.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department released results of the report today, said Andrew Munoz, a spokesman for the National Park Service at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

The virus can invade carp as water temperatures warm. The illness affects gill function and can lead to suffocation and secondary infections.

While there was evidence of bacterial contamination, lab test results point to the Koi herpes virus as the most likely cause as to why thousands of carp turned up dead on Lake Mohave beaches. The virus doesn't pose a threat to human health, authorities said.

Since Memorial Day weekend, dead carp have been washing up on the shores of Lake Mohave.

The National Park Service has advised visitors that the water is safe for swimming. As a precaution, those visiting Lake Mohave should avoid handling dead fish, because rotting fish flesh could pose a health threat.

The test results confirmed what park officials suspected was the cause. Water quality tests ruled out toxins produced by algae.

Reports from around the lake do indicate that the die-off in carp may be subsiding.

Park maintenance crews have been removing dead fish from the developed areas at Katherine Landing and Cottonwood Cove.

Last Year, Lake Mead experienced a carp die-off in the Overton Beach area, likely because of low oxygen levels, Munoz said.

Lake Mohave has about 200 miles of shoreline and it would be impractical to attempt to remove dead carp from all beaches, officials said.

Marinas, boat rentals and tour operations are open.

For more information about planning a trip to Lake Mohave visit FunOnTheLake.com.