The cause of death was attributed to warm water that cannot hold as much oxygen as cooler water.
The fish, Menhaden, swim with mouths agape and gill openings widespread to strain out plankton.
When the water rises above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, it becomes hard for the Menhaden to receive enough oxygen to survive.
The lack of oxygen causes the fish to panic and act erratically, which depletes oxygen levels further.
As the water warms due to climate change, such events are likely to increase, especially in shallow, near-shore or inshore environments.
LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE
Thousands of Dead Menhaden Fish Wash Up on Texas Beach due to Warm Water and Climate Change
Thousands of dead fish were found washed up on a beach in Texas, United States.
12 June 2023 · 14:16 UTC
