Previously undetected parasite discovered In wild Wisconsin trout, DNR asking anglers to clean gear
LANGLADE COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging anglers to properly clean their gear after a recent discovery of a previously undetected parasite in Langlade County.
Officials with the Wisconsin DNR announced on Wednesday the discovery of the parasite Myxobolus cerebralis in Langlade County’s Elton Creek.
Elton Creek is a Class 1 trout stream. Officials say it tested positive for the parasite below Elton Springpond and at Highway 64.
April snowstorm power outages reaches over 100,000 customers
“Myxobolus cerebralis is a microscopic parasite that damages the cartilage and nerve tissue of trout and salmon and has been known to cause whirling disease,” the release from the Wisconsin DNR states.
It was noted that no fish have been discovered in Wisconsin with clinical symptoms of the disease. However, the DNR is implementing a surveillance program to determine if any additional trout populations have been affected.
“It’s unknown how Myxobolus cerebralis will impact our local trout populations at this time,” said Justine Hasz, DNR Fisheries Management Bureau Director. “In some states where the parasite has been found, trout and salmon have developed whirling disease, which has negatively impacted their local populations. However, other states with the parasite have seen no evidence of fish with whirling disease nor have they seen their trout and salmon populations impacted.”
Northeast Wisconsin snowfall totals, wind gust reports for early April snowstorm
Myxobolus cerebralis is only capable of infecting trout and salmon, with rainbow and brook trout thought to be the most susceptible, officials say. It cannot infect other fish species and poses no threat to humans or household pets.
The DNR is reminding anglers of the importance of cleaning and disinfecting their gear after fishing, especially in areas where parasites like these have been detected.
The Wisconsin DNR’s full press release can be read here.
