Report: Fish kill in Shark River under investigation

    State authorities are investigating a fish kill in the Shark River that was discovered Monday morning. 

    Public health coordinator Michael Meddis tells the Asbury Park Press moss bunker appears to be the affected species and the fish kill is mainly taking place in the boat basin in Belmar.

    Meddis says bunker reproduce in large numbers and typically use a lot of oxygen. Officials plan to take some oxygen readings.

    Bob Matthews, who works at the Fisherman’s Den Bait and Tackle in the Belmar Marina, tells the Asbury Park Press that fluke, blowfish and winter flounder are also coming up to the surface for air. 

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    New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection officials have taken samples and are cleaning the area, Belmar Mayor Matt Doherty tweeted late Monday morning.

    “Very concerning,” he added.

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    The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

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