Fish deaths at Crowdy Head Harbour are suspected to have been caused by marine algae and critical levels of low dissolved oxygen, says a spokesperson from NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI).
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DPI Fisheries staff conducted an investigation on Sunday, January 20 and found about 25 dead fish including Herring and Moses Perch.
“All fish were less than 15 centimetres in length,” the spokesperson said.
“A small number of deceased marine worms were also observed.”
The spokesperson said significant amounts of marine algae has been washed into the harbour.
“The suspected cause of the fish kill is a result of both smothering by the algae and the resulting critical levels of low dissolved oxygen caused by the decomposing algae,” she said.
“The event is very likely to be a result of changing currents and tides causing significant amounts of algae to be washed into Crowdy Head Harbour and trapping fish before they could escape”
The spokesperson said the investigation indicated the fish kill is not ongoing, however significant amounts of marine algae remain in the area and this is continuing to impacts on water quality.
Coopernook resident Jenni Green said she observed many fish dying at Crowdy Bay and the boat harbour on Saturday, January 19.
The event at Crowdy Head Harbour comes two weeks after fish kill was reported at Lake Cathie.
Fisheries officers will continue to monitor the situation.
Any observations of distress of dying fish should be reported by calling 1800 043 536.
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