More fish wash ashore

Reports of another mass fish washout have been reported north of Mile 100. Reports indicate that dead sardines had been found on the beach about 20 kilometres north of St Nowhere. This could possibly be due to low oxygen levels or the presence of sulphur in the water.

Harmful algal blooms, or HABs, occur when colonies of algae -plant-like organisms that live in the sea and freshwater - grow out of control while producing toxic or harmful effects on fish, shellfish, marine mammals, and birds. Many people call these blooms 'red tides'.

Not all algal blooms are harmful. Most blooms, in fact, are beneficial because the tiny plants are food for animals in the ocean. In fact, they are the major source of energy that fuels the ocean food web.

A small percentage of algae, however, produces powerful toxins that can kill fish, shellfish, mammals, and birds and may directly or indirectly cause illness in people.

HABs also include blooms of non-toxic species that have harmful effects on marine ecosystems. For example, when masses of algae die and decompose, the decaying process can deplete oxygen in the water, causing the water to become so low in oxygen that animals either leave the area or die.

Additional reporting: National Ocean Service

Photos: Leon's Tackle Shop