This is the centre of flexure of the tail, and the largest muscular forces are exerted here. Consequently, this is the common site for the vertebrae to break. Internally, there can be massive intramuscular hemorrhage close to the fracture, and numerous small haemorrhages may be spread throughout the body. The internal organs appear very reddish or congested. There may be blood pooled around the heart and numerous blood clots or thrombi are present.
Burns are never evident after lightning strikes.
Cutting into the flank muscle may reveal torn tissue, and the affected area has a raw, hamburg-like texture. Large amounts of bloody fluid are also present. Unfortunately, once stricken, there is no cure for a surviving fish. A high level of care will usually keep the fish alive, but normal healing is slow, and full recovery unlikely. Prevention of electrocution is the only sensible course of action for any prudent fish farmer.