It’s Natural: Learn About Summer Fish Die-Offs

Rising temperatures mean that you may see a natural fish die-off in the summer months. There are various reasons you may spot one:

• Increased water temperatures cause increased stress on fish, due to the drop in dissolved oxygen in the water. When dissolved oxygen levels are too low, many fish cannot survive. Rapid temperature fluctuations can also cause fish to become more susceptible to infections.
• Stress from overpopulation and increased competition for resources, such as dissolved oxygen, can result in increased fish deaths.

While fish die-offs are natural in the summer, you can still report them at on.IN.gov/sickwildlife. Find resources for managing your own private ponds on our website.