Aquatic invaders found in Macon County
For the first time, gill lice have been found in brook trout in the Southern Appalachians. The parasitic crustaceans are common in the northern states but had never been found this far south.
True to their name, the gill lice latch onto the gills and make it harder for trout to breathe and recover from stress. The lice can hamper growth and development and may in time reduce trout numbers.
Biologists from Land Trust for the Little Tennessee found the lice in high elevation streams in Macon County while conducting brook trout surveys on private land this fall.
Anglers who come in contact with the parasite should clean their gear and drain water from all equipment before entering another stream, as well as contacting the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission at 828.659.3324 with the information. The NCWRC is currently working to determine the extent of the spread.
