Red Tide on West Coast: Don’t eat seafood that washes up

(Photo: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment/X)

Red tide conditions along Elands Bay on the West Coast have led to large-scale marine animal kills, including significant numbers of West Coast lobster and other fish species.

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has warned the public that washed up lobster and fish are not safe for human consumption.

“Exposure to algal toxins and bacterial contamination poses a serious health risk. Consumption can lead to serious illness or death. Members of the public are requested not to collect, sell or eat any stranded marine animals.”

The department called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other agencies to assist in monitoring the situation to ensure that there is order in the community.

The department has activated a contingency plan, in terms of which officials of the department act in collaboration with various national, provincial and local authorities. This includes removing and relocating live lobsters to areas with stable oxygen levels, collecting and disposing of dead marine life, and monitoring oxygen levels and algal activity.

Large numbers of white clams, whelks and other shellfish also appeared at St. Helena Bay and Elands Bay washed up on the West Coast.