On social media, many viewers baffled after a viral video captured a mysterious moment showing fish in the Florida Keys are spinning in circles until they die.
In the Florida Keys, a mysterious phenomenon is causing animals to spin in circles until they die.
Scientists are currently investigating the possible causes of this strange behavior. However, this phenomenon remains mysterious, and no one can explain why.
Disturbing fish behavior spotted in Florida keys
In November 2023, scuba diver Gregg Furstenwerth baffled after spotting fish behavior spotted in the Florida keys .
He observed a distressed pinfish swimming upside-down in circles through a seagrass meadow in the Florida Keys.
He quickly recorded the incident, unsure of what was happening.
After hearing similar reports from other divers, Furstenwerth began documenting more cases from both his boat and docks at night.
At least 44 species affected
Scientists reported that at least 44 species were affected after spinning in circles until they died.
As of March 2024, scientists and locals have observed the strange behavior in 44 fish species, including the critically endangered smalltooth sawfish.
Fish in this area have been spotted swimming erratically, often dying afterward.
Despite the widespread nature of the phenomenon, there is no formal count of dead fish.
Scientists are scrambling to find the cause
The cause of the strange behavior is still unknown. Scientists and conservationists are working together in an urgent effort to find answers.
Alison Robertson, a marine scientist from the University of South Alabama, stated, “Everybody wants to know what it is right now.”
“We are doing everything we can to figure it out and find a solution.”, She added, ” “It is very strange to see such a prolonged event affecting so many different species.”
However, they also pointed out that the possible causes are being investigated.
One possibility under investigation is an algal bloom, specifically a red tide.
Red tide occurs when algae bloom in large numbers, releasing harmful toxins into the water.
However, scientists have ruled out red tide in this case. No indicators, such as toxins, high temperatures, or low oxygen, have been found
Marine ecologist Michael Parsons explained, “Fish kills happen, but this event is different. We can’t explain it with the usual causes.”
The strange behavior and deaths have left scientists baffled.
Gregg Furstenwerth, who has witnessed the disturbing sight firsthand, said, “It’s hard to process, but I can’t stop documenting this.”
Though the cause is still unclear, scientists remain dedicated to finding the source of this troubling phenomenon.
As they continue their investigation, one thing is certain: this event has left both researchers and the local community perplexed.
What do you think about the mystery of fish in the Florida Keys spinning in circles until they die?
