- Red tide conditions along the Western Cape’s West Coast have caused large numbers of marine deaths around Elands Bay.
- The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment says washed-up lobster and fish are not safe to eat.
A red tide along the West Coast has killed large numbers of sea creatures in and around Elands Bay in the Western Cape.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) says West Coast Rock Lobster, known as kreef, and various fish species are among those affected.
The department warns that people must not collect, sell or eat any stranded marine animals found along the coastline.
Officials say the exact time of death of the washed-up animals cannot be confirmed. This raises serious health concerns.
Exposure to harmful algal toxins and possible bacterial contamination could pose a severe risk. Eating the seafood may cause serious illness or death, the department said.
In response, the DFFE has activated its West Coast Rock Lobster Walkout Contingency Plan. Officials are working with national, provincial and local authorities to remove and relocate live lobsters to areas with stable oxygen levels.
They are also collecting and disposing of dead marine life and monitoring oxygen levels and algal activity.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been called in to help maintain order in affected communities while the work continues.
Pictured above: Seafood washed up along the Elands Bay coastline in the Western Cape.
Image source: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
