Investigation launched after discovery of dead fish at Athalassa Lake

Authorities in Nicosia mobilized on March 30, 2026, following the discovery of approximately 80 dead fish, mostly carp, at Athalassa Lake. Several government bodies, including the Departments of Forests, Water Development, Fisheries, and Environment, along with Veterinary Services and the State General Laboratory, are involved in the investigation. Glafkos Kyriakou, a Forestry Department spokesperson, stated that initial assessments suggest a sudden rise in water levels disturbed sediment at the lake bed, though laboratory tests are pending to confirm the cause. Results from collected water and fish samples are expected within a week. While some sources suggest potential links to past incidents involving cyanobacteria or oxygen depletion, officials currently rule out pollution or disease as primary causes. Emergency collection efforts are underway to remove the dead fish and protect the lake's ecological balance. There are no reports of harm to other wildlife, such as turtles or birds, in the park.