Selenium-Induced Changes in Fish Populations of a Heated Reservoir
High selenium levels and changes in abundance and size distribution of fishes were discovered after reports of fish dying in Martin Creek Reservoir, Texas. The reservoir functions as a cooling source for a coal-fueled power plant owned by Texas Utilities Generating Co. Analyses of fish muscle tissue by the Texas Department of Health showed selenium concentrations ranging from 2.0 to 9.1 mg/kg. Cove rotenone sampling by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department indicated biomass of fishes, except common carp, Cyprinus carpio, was reduced 72%. Relative biomass of trophic groups was altered...
