Appalachian Brook Trout are North Carolina’s only native species and they are my favorite trout for several reasons. They are the most colorful and their fall colors make them subject of many phonographs. They are found in small streams that exist in the higher elevations where the scenery is the most enjoyable. The hike in to these streams is enjoyable to me as well, not to mention the exercise.
So it was with great regret that I read that the Fisheries biologists with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has reported that gill lice were discovered on the gills of native brook trout populations. It is not known how wide the infestation is however; their existence has been documented in several headwaters streams of the Cullasaja River in Macon County. Gill lice are tiny white crustaceans that attach to the trout’s gills and inhibit their ability to breath. One good bit of information is that the lice were identified as Salmincola edwardsii which are known to affect brook trout but not affect brown or rainbow trout.
Gill lice can spread when anglers move from stream to stream or they can spread by illegal stockings between streams. Remember to get a stocking permit if you are so inclined and be sure to use safe practices when fishing to avoid transmitting the gill lice and/or any other aquatic nuisance. MORE