The Overstrand Municipality has explained the reason for a rotting smell in the Klein River Estuary.
Swimmers and those launching boats from the Prawn Flats along the Klein River Estuary, have often complained about an odour.
The Municipality said the smell is of Cladophora, a type of filamentous algae that grows in the estuary.
During periods of low water inflow and rising temperatures, large amounts of Cladophora can begin to decay. As it breaks down, trapped organisms within the algae rot, producing a pungent, septic odour often mistaken for sewage.
Dean o Neill, Municipal Manager of Overstrand, said “while the smell can be unpleasant, it’s important to note that Cladophora itself does not pose any health risk to humans. Wind and wave action can cause the algae to detach from the estuary floor and wash up on the shore.”
When it dries up, it may look like toilet paper.