Scientists study disease in striped bass

Type: Chesapeake
Region: Eastern
Location: Cooperative Oxford Lab

Fisheries biologist Kevin Rosemary collects samples from spring migrant striped bass in the pictures below. Biologists are studying a bacterial disease, called Mycobacteriosis, in striped bass. Fish collected in surveys are examined for signs of disease. Samples of internal organs are collected for microscopic examination and bacterial culture. Biologists at the Cooperative Oxford Lab have been studying the dynamics of this disease in striped bass for over 3-years using a tagging study, which has yielded valuable information. Striped bass are examined and photographed, a bright green tag is inserted and the fish is released back into Chesapeake Bay. Recaptured fish are studied to determine how quickly this disease progresses and if disease increases mortality rates. Fishermen are urged to report the capture of tagged striped bass (866-845-3379). A reward of $20 is offered for the return of intact fish. Retrieving intact, tagged fish is vital to this study. Biologists will make arrangements to collect tagged fish. Fish with the bright green tags are exempt from daily creel limits.