Road Rash Fluke

[Gumada]

Hi All,

Has anyone noticed or know why the fluke in and around Raritan bay have red area’s on the white underside ? Is it because of the mussel beds or something in the water ? The fluke further south have bright white belly’s and no sign of rasping....and there are mussel beds there too

[Jigman13]

I know some fish get reddish fins when stressed from rising water temps... pike and muskies to name a few... perhaps the increasing temps of the bay are applying a bit of stress on the fluke?

We've also had a lot of rain which equates to run-off into the rivers, creeks and streams. Possibly a decrease in salinity levels stressing them out? Or perhaps exposure to bacteria or nitrogen from fertilizers?

All could be playing a role...

[Setthehook]

Might have something to do with garbage the rains have brought through. (Syringes etc.)

[Duffman]

Haven’t noticed any red rash on any? Both real shallow, deeper in the bay or out front.

What I have seen is road rash on the dark side. Both last season as well as this year mostly on sub 17” fish.

[shresearchdude]

Good Morning all,

Well any external scars would be an indication of poor health in my experience. Naturally occurring mussels really shouldn't produce any issues with any fish, flatfish or not. I'd suggest a thorough washing of your hands after coming into contact with any damage- Just to be very safe.

Duff. Looks like scarring from perhaps an occurrence with a fishing trawl and also an external parasite. And for a fish to survive a trawl "impact" and continue to feed is good news for the fish!

Just my best guess based on experience....

[stugots]

Nice to see SHreseachdude still posting! Keep them coming.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Nice to see SHreseachdude still posting! Keep them coming.

Yes! Always good to hear from John!!

[Gumada]

Good Morning all,

Well any external scars would be an indication of poor health in my experience. Naturally occurring mussels really shouldn't produce any issues with any fish, flatfish or not. I'd suggest a thorough washing of your hands after coming into contact with any damage- Just to be very safe.

Duff. Looks like scarring from perhaps an occurrence with a fishing trawl and also an external parasite. And for a fish to survive a trawl "impact" and continue to feed is good news for the fish!

Just my best guess based on experience....

Thank you, that’s what I was also thinking. Appreciate the post.