Investigation launched after 30,000 dead fish found dead on Pilbara coast
Authorities have launched an investigation after about 30,000 dead fish were found on remote beaches near Gnoorea Point Campground, about 50km south-west of Karratha.
The fish along roughly 9km of shoreline comprise various species, including dory, rock cod, puffer fish, emperor, wrasse, bass, catfish, whiting, triggerfish, and damselfish.
It was also reported on Tuesday dead fish were found at the nearby Yanyare River mouth.
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The samples will be analysed to assess possible environmental or biological factors contributing to the mass mortality.
The Department of Health has advised people to avoid swimming and fishing in surrounding areas due to potential high levels of bacteria and unpleasant odours.
People have also been reminded not to use dead fish for bait or consumption and pets or other animals should be kept away from the decomposing fish.
It comes after hundreds of dead mackerel fish were found washed up on Coogee Beach in Perth last week, prompting DPIRD officers to investigate the scene.
DPIRD warned the fish could also start appearing on other beaches.
The City of Cockburn closed the beach. The department also temporarily closed C. Y. O’Connor Beach, south of the Catherine Point groyne, and McTaggart Cove due to the dead fish washing up on Friday.
Originally published on PerthNow
