When a Bolt of Lightning strikes a Body of Water?

Question

I know what a great conductor of electricity water is----has anyone ever discovered how such a strike may impact the species of widlife (fish---etc) that live in that Lake or River?

Always wondered about this.

Answer 1

without a connection made to metal the electicity seeks it disapates across the surface of lake til it finds connection on land!

fish are safe if not caught close to the surface

Answer 2

The effect is very local. I saw a picture (in National Geographic) taken underwater by a scuba diver of lightning hitting the water right next to him. It spreads out in a few feet to nothing.