The carp floating lifeless on the surface of the water

Deadly virus suspected of killing fish

By Paul Christian, Reporter Saturday, June 16, 2012
2:59 PM

A DEADLY virus is suspected of killing a number of fish in the lake at Brocket Hall.

Shocked Toby Newton contacted the Welwyn Hatfield Times after his walk in the grounds of the Lemsford stately home on June 1 ended in upset, as he discovered “no less than 10 dead carp” floating lifeless among the lilies.

The fish were sizable, at about a foot long each.

He said he had to avert his young daughter’s gaze from the scene on the lake.

Mr Newton said: “I was shocked.

“My three-year-old girl kept asking what those things in the water were.

“My wife and I had to divert her attention.”

He added: “Not sure what could have caused such an event, but I know the River Lea feeds the lake, the staff had just been called to see them [the dead fish] by one of the members, so I suspect they must be recently dead.”

It was revealed that staff at the site are dealing with a suspected outbreak of virulent koi herpes.

Kurt Schmid, general manager of Brocket Hall, said: “We are aware of the suspected case of Koi Herpes Virus (KHV) within the lake on the estate.

“As this is a naturally occurring environmental circumstance, we are working with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) and the Environment Agency to confirm this.

“We are keeping in regular contact with CEFAS to stay informed of this situation and will assist in any way possible to resolve it.”