Authorities have received numerous reports of mass die-offs of pelagic fish observed along the West Cape coast. This die-off covers an extensive area stretching from Saldanha Bay on the West Coast to Gansbaai near Danger Point.
Authorities have received numerous reports of mass die-offs of pelagic fish observed along the West Cape coast. This die-off covers an extensive area stretching from Saldanha Bay on the West Coast to Gansbaai near Danger Point.
Among the deceased species, sardines are the most frequently mentioned. Observations indicate that this phenomenon extends from coastal waters out to approximately 80 kilometers in the open sea. Pelagic fish inhabit the open ocean, not the seabed.
As a preventive measure, all operators of purse seine trawlers are strongly advised to immediately cease fishing activities. This moratorium will remain in effect until the root cause of this mortality is better understood.
The presence of a harmful algal bloom (HAB) has been confirmed near Saldanha, which is known to cause paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP).
Harmful algal blooms, sometimes called 'red tides,' occur when certain microscopic algae begin to reproduce rapidly, although they are not always red. Some species produce toxins capable of affecting fish, shellfish, seabirds, marine mammals, and humans. Others can deplete oxygen in the water, causing suffocation in marine animals.
Blooms are often triggered by a combination of favorable sea temperatures, sunlight, and nutrient-rich waters. The bloom found near Saldanha is known to produce toxins that can accumulate in shellfish such as mussels, oysters, and scallops. Consumption of contaminated shellfish can cause PSP—a potentially serious nervous system disorder. It is important to note that cooking or freezing does not destroy these toxins.
Although a direct link between the bloom and the mass die-off has not yet been established, officials are investigating the potential connection.
Work is currently underway to collect a full set of samples for laboratory analysis. These tests aim to identify the specific factors responsible for this incident and to ensure the safety of the marine ecosystem.
Earlier this week, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) reported that it is investigating reports of dead and dying sardines in several locations along the West Cape coast. A Department representative, Zolile Nkayi, stated that fish are washing ashore, and dead and dying sardines are being observed floating on the surface.
Sardines are one of South Africa's most important commercial fish species, supporting the purse seine industry and serving as food for larger fish, seabirds, seals, and dolphins. Consequently, a large-scale mortality event could have both ecological and economic consequences if it continues.
Authorities have received numerous reports regarding the mass death of pelagic fish covering an extensive stretch of the West Cape coast, from Saldanha Bay to Gansbaai, located near Danger Point.
Sardine is the predominant species among those that died, and it is the most frequently mentioned. Observations indicate that this phenomenon extends over a significant area—from coastal waters out to approximately 80 kilometers in the open sea. Pelagic fish inhabit the open ocean, not the seabed.
Mike Copeland, in a message circulated among participants in the commercial pelagic fishing industry, stated that investigations are underway. He strongly recommended that all trawler operators immediately cease fishing activities, noting that the suspension will remain in effect until the primary cause of mortality is determined.
Near Saldanha, the presence of a harmful algal bloom (HAB) has been confirmed, which is known to cause paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP).
Harmful algal blooms, sometimes called 'red tides,' occur when certain microscopic algae reproduce rapidly. Some species produce toxins capable of negatively affecting fish, shellfish, seabirds, marine mammals, and humans. Others can deplete oxygen in the water, causing suffocation in marine animals.
Blooms are often triggered by a combination of favorable sea temperatures, sunlight, and nutrient-rich waters. The bloom found near Saldanha is known to produce toxins that accumulate in shellfish such as mussels, oysters, and scallops. Consumption of contaminated shellfish can lead to PSP—a potentially serious nervous system disorder. It is important to note that cooking or freezing does not destroy these toxins.
Although a direct link between the bloom and the mass die-off has not yet been established, officials are studying a possible connection.
Work is currently being done to collect a complete set of samples for laboratory analysis. These tests aim to identify the specific factors responsible for this event and to ensure the safety of the marine ecosystem.
Earlier this week, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) stated that it is investigating reports of dead and dying sardines in several locations along the West Cape coast. A Department representative, Zolile Nkayi, reported that fish are washing ashore, and dead and dying sardines are also observed drifting on the surface.
Sardines represent one of South Africa's most vital commercial fish species, supporting the trawling industry and serving as food for larger fish, seabirds, seals, and dolphins. Consequently, a large-scale mortality event could have both ecological and economic consequences if it continues.
