LIHU'E, Kaua'i — State agencies are investigating a report of a large number of dead fish along the shores of Ni'ihau, the privately owned island off the west coast of Kaua'i.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources' Aquatic Resources Division on Kaua'i received the report on Monday from the island's owner, the DLNR said yesterday.

DLNR aquatic biologist Don Heacock and Department of Health Clean Water Branch specialist Gary Ueunten traveled to Ni'ihau Wednesday to investigate. They found about 100 dead fish at one location on the southern end of the island, and a smaller amount of dead fish on other coastal areas.

Species found included triggerfish (humuhumu), rudderfish (nenue), and a snapper (ta'ape), along with several other species in smaller numbers. Samples were taken and will be examined to try and determine the possible cause of death and follow-up surveys are being planned.

The public is advised not to capture and consume any fish that seems impaired or sluggish in its movements and has any strange or unusual odor, the DLNR advised. These and other unusual conditions may be caused by some type of unknown contaminant, parasite, disease or marine toxin. Consumers are advised to ask where fish was caught and avoid consuming fish caught in coastal waters of Ni'ihau until more information is available.

Anyone with information about the fish kill is asked to contact Don Heacock, DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources (Kaua'i), 808-274-3344, or Watson Okubo, DOH Clean Water Branch, 808-586-4309.