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TITLE: If you see a fish with skin problems, call the DNR

BYLINE: Gene Mueller

CREDIT: THE WASHINGTON TIMES

EST. PAGES: 1

DATE: 07/02/97

DOCID: WATI246537

SOURCE: The Washington Times; WATI

EDITION: 2; SECTION: B;SPORTS;OUTDOORS; PAGE: B5

(Copyright 1997)

Among the relatively small percentage of fish that has been seen containing skin disorders either on the Eastern Shore or the western side of the Chesapeake Bay, it is important that you learn to recognize the three types: Lesions, sores or abrasions. Lesions are breaches of the skin; irregular half-dollar-sized splotches. Sores (often associated with a presence of pfiesteria) point to a penetration of the skin, deep enough to reach flesh and muscle tissue. Abrasions are a simple reddening of the skin, occasionally some loss of skin.

If you notice any or all three symptoms on a fish you've caught, you are asked to turn it loose. Do not keep it, hoping a biologist wants to see it. It doesn't help. By the time the DNR would see it, any bacterial evidence would be compromised. Instead, call 888/448-0012.

This special hotline is set up with a series of recorded prompts. Answer questions as they come along. If you leave your name, phone and address, you'll be contacted. The DNR wants all the citizens to know that their help in this is vitally important