Yes, you can eat catfish from the Schuylkill River, particularly those caught near Philadelphia, but there are important guidelines to follow regarding frequency and species.
Guidelines for Eating Fish from the Schuylkill River
For certain species caught in the Schuylkill River, especially near Philadelphia, limited consumption is generally considered acceptable. Catfish falls into this category.
- Frequency: It is recommended that you limit your consumption of catfish, white perch, and striped bass from the Schuylkill River to once a month.
- Location: These guidelines specifically apply to fish caught in the river near Philadelphia.
Adhering to these recommendations helps mitigate potential risks associated with contaminants that can accumulate in fish.
Schuylkill River Fish Consumption Summary
To help you remember which fish are generally safer and which to avoid, here's a summary:
| Fish Species | Recommended for Consumption? | Consumption Frequency | Reason/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catfish | Yes, with limits | Once a month | Generally considered safer for limited consumption |
| White Perch | Yes, with limits | Once a month | Generally considered safer for limited consumption |
| Striped Bass | Yes, with limits | Once a month | Generally considered safer for limited consumption |
| American Eel | No | Avoid | Highly contaminated by PCBs; bottom feeder |
| Carp | No | Avoid | Highly contaminated by PCBs; bottom feeder |
Fish to Avoid
While some fish are acceptable for occasional consumption, certain species in the Schuylkill River are best avoided entirely due to high levels of contamination.
- American eel and carp are particularly susceptible to contamination because they are bottom feeders. Their diet and habitat make them prone to accumulating higher concentrations of pollutants, such as PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls). These contaminants can pose significant health risks if consumed. Therefore, it is strongly advised not to eat American eel or carp caught in the Schuylkill River.
