Still reeling from the MSX virus in Bras d’Or Lakes oysters, the species has received another blow with the discovery of Malpeque disease in the waters of St. Ann’s Harbour and Orangedale.
There are no human health concerns related to Malepeque but, since 1915 when the first symptoms were recorded, there have been significant losses to oyster beds throughout the Maritimes. Stocks will eventually rebound as the oyster population develop a tolerance. The Bras d’Or Lakes were the last area in the Maritimes to be free of the problem.
Further testing has not found Malpeque in other areas of the Lakes.
allison@uinr.ca