BRANSON – MDC biologists say the finding of a fungus-like infection on some trout at Lake Taneycomo is a reminder about problems caused by handling fish too much.
The light-colored cotton-like growths some anglers have reported finding on trout that have been caught at Lake Taneycomo in recent weeks have been identified as saprolegnia.
Although frequently referred to as a fungus, saprolegnia is a water-borne mold. This mold produces white or light-brown growths that adhere to a fish’s skin or gills.
Saprolegnia pathogens are naturally occurring in fresh-water environments that feature cold water and can affect any fish species, but trout seem to be the most susceptible.
