Dead sardines wash up along Western Cape coast
· The South African
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has launched an investigation after reports of dead and dying sardines were received from several locations along the Western Cape coastline.
The affected stretch extends from Saldanha Bay to Gansbaai, with fish found washed up on beaches and floating offshore, prompting concerns among coastal communities and authorities.
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Fish found along beaches and offshore
According to DFFE spokesperson Zolile Nqayi, reports indicate that dead and dying sardines have been observed washing ashore at multiple locations.
In addition, fish have been seen drifting at the surface up to eight nautical miles offshore near Hout Bay, suggesting the incident extends beyond isolated beach strandings.
The department has not yet determined what caused the deaths.
Investigation begins
The DFFE confirmed that examination and diagnostic testing of the affected fish will begin on Monday as scientists work to establish the cause of the mortality event.
Authorities are expected to investigate a range of possible factors, including environmental conditions, harmful algal blooms, disease and changes in ocean water quality.
Public urged not to touch or eat fish
As a precaution, the department has urged members of the public not to collect, handle or consume any dead or dying fish found on beaches or floating at sea.
Officials warned that the cause of the fish deaths remains unknown until laboratory testing has been completed, making it unsafe to handle or eat affected sardines.
The DFFE says further updates will be provided once the investigation and diagnostic testing have established the cause of the incident.
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