Sardine mortality update: No new reports for a month as laboratory testing resumes
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has received no further reports of dead sardines since 10 September 2026. The absence of further reports indicates that the acute mortality phase has ended. Surveillance continues, and coastal authorities, fishers and members of the public are encouraged to report any new sightings promptly.
An approved precautionary catch limit is in force from 3 to 30 October 2026. Each sardine right holder may harvest no more than 33% of its remaining uncaught 2026 directed sardine total allowable catch, in the applicable management area west or east of Cape Agulhas.
The measure limits the rate of sardine removals while further scientific information is gathered and processed. The fishery remains an important source of samples for laboratory testing and information on where sardines are being encountered. The Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group will reassess the position on 27 October 2026, or earlier if material new evidence emerges.
Further laboratory testing for pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) is underway and results are expected during the coming week. Testing of samples collected before, during and after the mortality event will help clarify when the virus was present, its association with affected fish and whether it remains detectable. Results will be considered alongside fish health and environmental information, as detecting viral material alone does not establish active disease.
Preparations continue for the end-of-year hydroacoustic survey, planned to begin in early November and cover the coast from Hondeklip Bay to Port St Johns. It will provide the first fisheries-independent estimate of sardine biomass and distribution following the mortality event.
The DFFE and its partners continue work under the coordinated response plan, including monitoring possible effects on sardine-dependent predators and the wider marine ecosystem.
PHV is a fish virus and is not known to infect people. Commercially produced sardine products released through regulated channels remain safe. Members of the public should nevertheless not collect or consume dead or dying sardines found on beaches or floating near the shore, feed them to animals, or use them as bait.
For media queries, contact
Zolile Nqayi
Cell: 082 898 6483
Email: znqayi@dffe.gov.za
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