Overview

• A federal agency has launched an emergency response to rescue and rehabilitate endangered smalltooth sawfish in Florida after reports of abnormal behavior and deaths.
• Scientists are puzzled by the cause of the spinning and dying phenomena affecting sawfish and other fish species, with no clear indicators from water quality or pathogen tests.
• At least 109 sawfish have been affected, with more than 28 confirmed deaths, raising concerns about the impact on the recovery of this endangered species.
• Multiple aquariums and laboratories, including Mote Marine Laboratory and Ripley's Aquariums, are partnering with NOAA in the rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
• Residents are encouraged to report any unusual fish behavior or sightings of sawfish to help in the investigation.