Chaka’s Cove tidal pool reopens a week after mass fish death

The Chaka’s Cove tidal pool has reopened to bathing, just in time for what promises to be another beach-perfect weekend.

This was confirmed by KwaDukuza (KDM) lifeguard superintendent Bongani Xulu and head of marine safety Steve Honeysett. While test results have not yet been made available, Honeysett said the water in the tidal pool was clear.

“The pool is looking 100% again,” he said.

“Fish are swimming around in the pool, crabs are going in and out of the water and the water is clean.”

This comes after this popular snorkelling spot was closed last Friday (February 13) following the sudden mass death of about 150 intertidal fish and other marine creatures.

A prolonged heat wave that coincided with exceptionally calm seas during neap tide saw the water level in this closed-off tidal pool drop significantly.

With little to no fresh water coming in over the wall and daily temperatures soaring into the lower thirties for three weeks straight, the water temperature increased to 30°C and oxygen levels dropped to a mere 2.9%. A well oxygenated water source should hold about 70% oxygen.

Local ecologists and KDM spokesperson, Bridget Shange, believe the fish could not breathe and died. Many of the flourishing coral beds also died.

Subsequently, yesterday’s spring tide – coinciding with a solid ground swell running since Wednesday – saw a fresh batch of seawater and fish wash into the pool, paving the way for it to be reopened.

The incident was the second mass marine death in two days after thousands of fish washed up dead at the Umhlali River mouth on Thursday, February 12. Water samples were taken and sent to an independent laboratory for testing.

The results have not yet been made available and the beach area remains closed.

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