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Marron cysts not harmful to humans

File Picture: Cysts were found on marron from Grimwade Large Dam, north east of Balingup in January. Picture: Supplied

DEPARTMENT of Fisheries has confirmed marron found with cysts containing worms from Grimwade Large Dam do not pose any health risks to humans.

Fishers were warned to stop catching and eating marron from the dam before the marron season closed on February 5.

Department of Fisheries principal fish health research scientist Dr Cecile Dang said tests identified the worm cysts as a species that relied on multiple hosts before finding their final host, usually freshwater turtles.

Dr Dang said there was nothing unusual about this type of activity.

Marron season is now closed for the year but the Department of Fisheries is urging caution when the season resumes in January 2016.

Unusual catches can be reported to FishWatch on 1800 815 507.