A mysterious affliction affecting prehistoric, endangered smalltooth sawfish in Florida waters has resurfaced, with over 50 deaths recorded last year, according to wildlife officials. The odd spinning behavior seen in sawfish has reappeared after a nine-month lull, with 22 reports of spinning behavior and six sawfish deaths reported since December in waters around the Florida Keys.
Scientists are still unsure about the cause of this affliction, with testing for parasites, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals turning up inconclusive results. Some subtle changes in the brain tissue of affected fish have been noted, but further research is needed to determine the root cause.
Sawfish, related to rays, skates, and sharks, have been around for millions of years but are now mainly found off the coast of southwestern Florida and the Keys as their habitats diminish. Following the initial deaths, state legislators approved $2 million to investigate the sawfish deaths in various Florida waters.
One theory suggests that a heat wave last year, attributed to climate change, may have changed the algae in ocean waters where sawfish are often found. Algal toxins are being investigated as potential causes of the spinning behavior and deaths.
The smalltooth sawfish has been on the U.S. endangered species list since 2003, and intentional capture or harm is prohibited in Florida. The state has seen similar die-offs in other marine species, such as threatened manatees, due to pollution impacting their food sources. Conservation efforts, such as feeding manatees and investigating sawfish deaths, are ongoing to protect these vulnerable species in Florida waters.
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