"Emergency Response to Mysterious Fish Behavior in South Florida"

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has initiated an emergency response in south Florida following reports of smalltooth sawfish displaying abnormal behaviors and fish deaths. The cause is unknown, and ongoing efforts involve necropsies, water sample analysis, and potential rescue and rehabilitation of the endangered species. The decline in smalltooth sawfish populations due to habitat loss and accidental capture led to their federal protection as endangered, making the recent deaths a significant concern for their recovery.