FISH which died after a pond dried up in a Poole park died because they could not adapt to “fluctuating water levels”. 

Several carp were found dead at Grove Lake in Upton Country Park late last week after a long spell of hot, dry weather evapourated the water. 

Walkers were left concerned and upset after the fish “met their maker”, with one resident adding she was “shocked and appalled” the fish had been left to die. 

Bournemouth Echo: The dried up lake has revealed water weeds which have now been removedThe dried up lake has revealed water weeds which have now been removed

Councillor Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for environment and place at BCP Council, responded to the incident at the park, for which it is responsible for. 

Cllr Anderson said: “The unprecedented dry conditions have significantly reduced the natural supply of water feeding the Grove Lake at Upton Country Park, Poole.  

Read more: Fish found dead at a dried up lake in Poole

“Throughout the year the lake provides a haven for our native wildlife. However non-native species, such as carp, have been introduced into the environment and are not able to adapt to such significant fluctuations in water levels. 

Bournemouth Echo: Cllr Mark AndersonCllr Mark Anderson

“The team at Upton Country Park are currently monitoring the situation daily whilst investigating environmentally friendly and cost-effective options to help improve the immediate situation.  

“This includes circulating the remaining water to help aerate it and continuing to remove water weed which creates a dense underwater mass in turn removing oxygen from the water.  

“Unfortunately, catching and rehoming fish takes time to organise and it is essential that health screening is carried out to help reduce the risk of diseases being transferred between fish stocks.”