A red tide sweeping across parts of the West Coast (Elands Bay area), washed out Rock Lobsters (Kreef).
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DAFF) confirmed the link between the tide and marine crustacean kills.
Residents and visitors to the beach are urged not to collect, sell, or eat the washed out lobsters, because they carry algal toxins and bacterial contamination, which may cause severe illness or death.
Zolile Nqayi, Spokesperson of DAFF, said the DAFF has “activated the West Coast Rock Lobster Walkout Contingency Plan.”
This action will allow officials to remove and relocate lobsters to areas with stable oxygen levels, they will also be able to monitor oxygen and algal activity and kickstart research on affected stocks.
Picture: Steve Benjamin.