“Mushy halibut syndrome” found in Cook Inlet, Alaska

“Mushy halibut syndrome,”  a mysterious form of malnutrition that affects halibut is being reported in Cook Inlet, Alaska. The syndrome turns the normally firm halibut meat into something that resembles “oatmeal” when cooked.  The halibut is still safe to eat but is unappealing and unappetizing. Mushy halibut syndrome is not new, but scientists are unable to determine the exact cause.  It is some form of nutritioinal defiency in smaller fish that leads to a breakdown of the muscle tissue. Alaska officials say mushy halibut syndrome is not caused by an infectious agent such as a virus, bacteria or protozoa.