(30 Aug 2015) Thousands of dead fish wer found washed ashore in the Jacarepagua Lagoon on Saturday, next to Rio de Janeiro's Olympic Park.
Residents began noticing the appearance of dead fish on Friday.
Orlando Gomes, who has lived in the area since 2011, said it's the first time he has seen the phenomenon in the lagoon.
Experts say the fish most likely died because of insufficient oxygen due to pollutants and untreated human waste flowing into the lagoon from nearby condominiums and sprawling shantytowns.
Rio's pollution has been in the spotlight since an independent five-month analysis by the AP published July 30 showed dangerously high levels of viruses from human sewage at all Rio Olympic water venues for sailing, rowing, canoeing, triathlon and distance swimming.
The International Olympic Committee has declined to endorse testing for viruses, which can cause stomach and respiratory ailments that could knock an athlete out of competition.
The IOC and local organisers have said repeatedly the water is safe despite being filled with floating rubbish and untreated sewage that gushes down gullies from hillside favelas.
No Olympic events are scheduled to take place on Jacarepagua Lagoon, although it is considered a scenic backdrop to the Olympic Park.
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