WASHINGTON, Sept. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists say they are concerned about bass possessing both male and female characteristics that have been found in the Washington area.
The abnormally developed fish discovered in the Potomac River and its tributaries are believed to have been affected by pollution that has altered their hormone systems, The Washington Post reported.
The male bass -- both smallmouth and largemouth -- have been found developing immature eggs inside their sex organs. That, scientists told the Post, suggests the problem of "intersex" fish that was first identified in West Virginia in 2003 has spread.
Researchers say the cause of the abnormalities isn't known, but they believe pollutants in the waterways are to blame. That also raises questions about the safety of the millions of people who drink tap water taken from the Potomac. However, officials are quick to note there is no evidence that such tap water is unsafe.
