- Abundant Deceased Fish Discovered in Rivers of East Friesland
Plenty of deceased fish are surfacing in East Frisia's waterways. The district of Leer revealed that this is due to an unusually low oxygen level in the water, with the oxygen content subsequently rising again.
During the weekend, the oxygen content dipped dramatically below the 2-milligram per liter mark in certain rivers, such as the Jümme near Leer. The latest readings, however, showed the oxygen level had rebounded to between 3.49 and 3.83 milligrams per liter on Monday. A value of 4 milligrams or more suggests improvement, according to a district representative. Local fishing clubs are reportedly assisting in the removal of the decaying fish bodies. Previous reports on this issue were published by the "Ostfriesen-Zeitung" and "NDR".
According to the broadcaster's report, rivers such as Leda and Aper Tief were also affected. The heavy rainstorm on Wednesday might have contributed to the decrease in oxygen levels by carrying runoff water from settlements into the rivers. The district spokesperson confirmed a temporal connection, but stressed that it's too soon for a conclusive finding. This is a multifaceted problem with likely multiple causes, the spokesperson added.
The following rivers, such as Leda and Aper Tief, have also been affected by the decrease in oxygen levels. Previous reports about this issue were published in both the "Ostfriesen-Zeitung" and "NDR".
