Mass die off of #turtles by a ‘strange virus’ in St John’s river in #Florida, #USA

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says an unknown virus may be to blame for hundreds of turtles dying in the St. Johns River.

According to a spokesperson for the commission, scientists at the University of Florida have identified a novel virus in 18 dead turtles discovered along the river. They say the virus seems to be a common link in the samples.

Since last March, FWC says more about 300 fresh-water softshell and cooter turtles have been reported dead or sick in the massive river. Experts say it doesn’t appear the toxic algae is contributing to the deaths, nor do any other types of animals seem to be affected.

Courtesy of fox35orlando.com

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