A severe red tide along South Africa's west coast is causing mass deaths of crayfish and other marine life, prompting authorities to warn the public against collecting or consuming the potentially toxic shellfish.
The South African Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment reported on Thursday that the algal bloom has led to a 'mass walkout' of crayfish, also known as rock lobsters, at Elands Bay, about 220 kilometres north of Cape Town. The creatures are attempting to escape toxins produced by the algae, but large numbers are washing up dead or dying on beaches.
Red tides occur when algae colonies grow uncontrollably, turning seawater reddish and releasing harmful toxins. While common in South African waters, this week's event is particularly severe, according to the ministry. Police have been deployed to some beaches to enforce the ban on collecting crayfish, which may contain lethal neurotoxins.
More than 20 people were removed from one beach while trying to gather the crayfish. Ministry officials are working to save live crayfish and safely dispose of the dead ones, the ministry said.
