USGS: Rapidly-spreading disease in Hawaii coral — New strain of cyanobacteria blamed — Fish with lesions, turtles having problems — Big concern whether infectious to humans — “Truly an unusual event”
A report by the U.S. Geological Survey finds that an outbreak of coral disease along Kauai’s North Shore is an epidemic. Dr. Thierry Work said the disease is rapidly spreading. A report released Wednesday said microscopic changes in tissue suggest the corals are under some type of stress.
Another big concern is whether this new strain of cyanobacteria is infectious to humans and marine life. Work says he and other scientists involved in the ongoing study have spotted puffer fish with skin discoloration and unusual lesions on their fins.
The bottom line, according to Work, is that Kaua’i’s reefs are heavily degraded and infected with a rapidly-spreading white coral disease unlike any seen here before.