AN investigation has been launched to trace the source of pollution in a stream which killed almost 100 fish.

Tests were carried out at Bevern Stream in Barcombe, near Lewes, following the discovery of dead and distressed fish in the water.

Experts from the Environment Agency were sent out after the alarm was raised and discovered low oxygen levels in the stream.

Teams used specialist equipment to improve oxygen and clear the area.

The types of fish affected are said to be carp and chub.

This incident comes after 900 fish died in the River Adur East near Burgess Hill last month.

The agency continued to monitor the stream, a tributary of the River Ouse, for a few days after the incident, which happened on Monday.

It says the situation has now improved but they have not yet discovered the cause.

A spokesman said: “We have no officers on site as oxygen levels have returned to normal, which indicates a good level of water quality.

“Live fish have been seen and none are in distress.

“We are awaiting the results of water sample tests.”

A spokesman for Southern Water said it had been contacted by the Environment Agency on Monday when the fish were found.

He said: “We have a treatment works and a sewer near the stream but we have found no faults which would have affected the water quality.”

Herpes outbreak strikes koi carp

A FISHERY has been closed following an outbreak of herpes among its koi carp.

Woodpeckers Fishing Lakes at Ley House Farm, Worth, near Crawley, is now subject to controls from the Fish Health Inspectorate, acting for the government.

All movement of fish to, from and within the fishery complex has been banned.

Fishery equipment disinfection measures are also now in place and anglers must ensure that they comply within the designated area.

The fishery owners reported the problem and voluntarily closed the fishery as soon as KHV disease was suspected.

KHV cannot be passed on to humans but is a serious viral disease of fish. It affects all varieties of common and ornamental carp and is often deadly.

Signs of KHV disease may include white or necrotic patches on the gills, rough patches on the skin, sloughing mucous and sunken eyes.