Toxic algal blooms are present in Tasmanian waters, leading Fisheries Tasmania to issue a public health alert for wild shellfish caught on the East Coast.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Wild shellfish from George Rocks, Binalong Bay, Bicheno, Moulting Bay, Great Oyster Bay, Great Swanport, Little Swanport, Spring Bay, Blackman Bay and Nubeena/Wedge Bay cannot be eaten, Public Health director Dr Mark Veitch said.
“Because toxins have been detected in shellfish from the far North-East Coast and as far south as Bruny Island, wild shellfish from anywhere along the East Coast may pose a risk,” Dr Veitch said.
“Do not eat recreationally harvested shellfish from these waters because the algal toxins are harmful to humans,” he said.
Wild shellfish include oysters, mussels, clams, pipis, cockles and wedge shells.
Abalone, scallop roe and rock lobster intestines and livers can also be affected by toxic algal blooms.
Fisheries Tasmania said high levels algal toxins were detected in wild shellfish from these areas, but seafood in shops and restaurants is safe to eat as they are commercially grown.
RELATED: Shellfish testing funds in budget
Shellfish poisoning symptom include:
- Tingling or numbness
- Weakness
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea.
If you become sick after eating wild shellfish seek medical advice.