Mass fish die-off at Athalassa Lake under investigation

Authorities are investigating the cause of a mass fish die-off at Athalassa Lake, where dead fish have been found floating across the water.

Forestry department official Loizos Constantinou said a similar incident already occurred three years ago at a greater scale and is likely caused by a potentially toxic cyanobacterium.

Samples of dead fish have been collected for histological analysis, while water samples have been sent for biological and chemical tests.

The relevant services, including veterinary authorities, the water development department, the fisheries department, the state’s general chemistry lab, and the environmental department, have all been informed.

Efforts to remove the dead fish are ongoing as officials monitor the situation throughout the weekend.

Results from the tests are expected next week and should clarify the cause of the fish deaths. The forestry department will continue its surveillance of the lake and surrounding area in the coming days.