No new West Coast Rock Lobster strandings in West Coast red tide
There has been no new strandings of West Coast Rock Lobster since Saturday, 16 January 2021. This is despite research findings indicating that the Red Tide stretched along the Northern shores of St Helena Bay, from Dwarskersbos to North of Lambert’s Bay and moved South and is now located off the Berg River.
On Friday, 15 January 2021, the Red Tide was responsible for marine mortalities, including approximately 1000 kg of West Coast Rock Lobster in the vicinity of Elands Bay. The flow of the bloom into the Southern region of St Helena Bay means that there is unlikely to be further lobster mortalities of significance, owing to the smaller lobster populations in that region.
Further mortalities of other marine life are possible; particularly at risk is the Berg River estuary.
The Public is warned not to consume any decayed fish and shellfish washed ashore as a result of the red tide which could pose a serious health hazard.
Media enquiries:
Zolile Nqayi
Cell: 082 898 6483
E-mail: znqayi@environment.gov.za
