This gives new meaning to the phrase big fish.
A huge four-pound goldfish was discovered in a South Carolina lake after authorities conducted a routine water quality test, a report says.
Ty Houck, director of greenways, natural and historical resources at the Greenville County Park Department, told The State that he did not know how long the fish had been in Oak Grove Lake, but he assumed he was the pet of someone who they didn’t want it anymore.
(Credit: Greenville County Rec)
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“Our guess is that someone didn’t want to kill their fish, but they couldn’t take care of it anymore,” Houck told the media.
Greenville Rec also posted a photo of the fantastic fish on its Facebook page.
Although most goldfish are tiny, mostly living in small bowls, Houck said their size can vary widely, reminiscent of one from his own childhood.
“They grow to the size of their environment,” he added.
Given its large size, it is likely to be very old, with Houck’s mother referring to him as Methuselah.
“This could be Lake Oak Grove Methuselah,” Houck said of the 9-pound fish, while observing his survival skills.
In addition to its longevity, Houck said the goldfish must have some very good survival skills after some dredging was done at the head of the lake earlier this year.
Goldfish are not native to South Carolina lakes, but are not considered to be invaders. Commenting on its size, Houck also noted that the lake is healthy and is not the result of any nuclear exposure.
“We are not downstream from the nuclear plant,” explained Houck. “In fact, it’s just the opposite.
“Obviously, it’s healthy enough on Oak Grove Lake for that goldfish to be so big,” he added.
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