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HONOLULU — Changes to environmental conditions might have caused the deaths of multiple fish in a Honolulu stream.
Large numbers of tilapia were found dead Tuesday in Waialae Stream in Waialae Beach Park.
The state Department of Health says the fish deaths could be the result of low oxygen in the water, which is often seen downstream of wetland habitats following large storms.
An official says lowered oxygen levels can also occur after periods of hot, dry weather in low-lying canals where algae blooms can occur.
Waialae Stream formed a stagnant lagoon separated from the ocean by sand during Tuesday’s low tide.
Officials say only the freshwater tilapia appear to have been affected, while crabs, mullet and papio were observed unharmed.