POOR FISH IN ELLESMERE

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28767, 12 December 1958, Page 18

POOR FISH IN ELLESMERE

Explanation By Society Some anglers have been blaming the North Canterbury Acclimatisation Society for the poor condition of some An-clipped fish taken in the Ellesmere system, according to a report issued by th. society’s publicity officer (Mr R. B. Soanes). It is not true that the removal of the adipose fin has been the cause of this poor condition, says the report. During the spawning run a trap was put in the Selwyn and fish trapped had their adipose fins removed so that their subsequent movements could be noted. Thes. fish were then allowed upatrsam to spawn. Because of the dry season many of the fish remained upstream, and the available food was soon consumed. As a result, the fish were unable to regain condition after spawning, s < “It was only through the kalvage efforts made by the society's field staff during this difficult period that these fish were made available to anglers at all,” says the report. “Had they not been salvaged, they could have died in thousands. “It is anticipated that with a little longer in the lower reaches, where there is plenty of food, there should be a noticeable Improvement in the condition of the fish concerned,” says the repbrt