Deadly fungus detected in the River Blackwater

A plague of fungus that can prove deadly to wildlife has been detected in the River Blackwater.

According to the Irish Independent, the North American plague kills crayfish, sparking concern for the species and birds which feed on it.

First detected in Cavan, it has now been found in the River Blackwater, spanning counties Waterford, Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, and Kerry.

The paper reports the N-P-W-S and Inland Fisheries Ireland are appealing to those using the river for kayaking or sporting activities to wash and dry equipment afterward, to prevent the spread of the fungus.