Though the recent fish holocaust along the East Johor Straits was thought to be due to algal bloom, the Agri-food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) have concluded that it is due to plankton.
Speaking to TODAY, AVA confirmed that up to 600 tonnes of fish belonging to 55 farms have been lost due to the plankton bloom.
To help with the losses sustained, the AVA will be providing assistance to fish farmers affected by the recent fish deaths to recovere and restart their operations, as well as strengthen their resilience against the elements.
“Plankton bloom occurrences are very difficult to prevent, but it is possible to reduce the impact,” said Minister of State for National Development and Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman following his visits at two affected fish farms yesterday.
“Whilst we provide assistance to help farmers tide over this difficult period, it is also important for farmers to do their part to take mitigating measures early.”
AVA mentioned that they had been actively monitoring the situation at the fish farming areas and actually alerted farmers on Feb 16 and 17 about the elevated plankton levels.
The agency are currently working with external experts and companies to look into possible solutions to minimise the impact of plankton blooms in the future.
Photo: Sean Yap Facebook page
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