Lobster die-off could have far-reaching effects

From CNN Correspondent Deborah Feyerick

March 8, 2000
Web posted at: 3:25 p.m. EST (2025 GMT)

(CNN) -- What counts as a rare treat for most diners could get even rarer. Something's killing the lobsters in Long Island Sound, raising the possibility of a shortage.

Lobster fishing is a $100 million-a-year industry in the Sound, the nation's third-largest supply ground. But since September, the traps have been coming up virtually empty.

"We've got six traps on the boat. One lobster," said lobsterman George Carbone. "At this time of year we should have at least five or six. The majority are gone. Dead."

Thousands of lobsters have been disappearing at an alarming rate. "Ninety percent died in a month and a half," said Auggie Carbone, George's son and fishing partner.

Scientists believe a parasite is killing the lobsters by attacking their nervous systems, but pollution and environmental changes are also being investigated as possible causes.

"What we're trying to address is why we're seeing this agent now, where it came from and whether this agent has been in the environment but something has disturbed the lobsters' defense or immune system so (they) can't fight off this agent," explained Dr. Richard French, a veterinary pathologist at the University of Connecticut.

The die-off is threatening to put thousands of lobster boats into dry dock permanently. "Overnight, what I had was taken away from me," said Auggie Carbone. "I can't make money to pay the bills, pay my mortgage or keep the boat up."

The Commerce Department has labeled the crisis a "commercial fishery failure," making lobster trappers eligible for federal funds. But money won't solve the problem immediately. So many females and young lobsters have died that the market could feel the impact for years.

Scientists do not think the parasite is harmful to humans. But they are concerned that whatever is devastating Long Island Sound could spread, affecting lobster grounds in Maine and Massachusetts.

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National Marine Fisheries Service
Maine Lobster Promotion Council
The Lobster Conservancy

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