Abnormal incidents occurring in Fiji’s marine life

When reefs are disturbed, it generates poisons that are being eaten by the fish and causes fish to be poisonous: Fisheries Minister.

Abnormal occurrences are happening with Fiji’s marine life – specifically on the disturbance of sea bottom and coral reefs. Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau said the disturbance is creating poisons.

“When reefs are disturbed, it generates poisons that are being eaten by the fish and causes fish to be poisonous.”

Mr Koroilavesau was responding to National Federation Party member Parmod Chand’s question about the awareness programme carried out by the ministry in the past year following fatalities caused by eating common species of fish like daniva. Mr Koroilavesau said that while the ministry carries out extensive awareness programmes across the country, the choice to buy fish lies solely with consumers. He emphasised that these fishes are only poisonous during a certain period of time.

The two main causes of poisonous fish are from natural causes and man-made influences. The change in weather patterns leads to changes in water temperatures, current and food source. With increases in algae and growth in the water column, fish species feed on algae. It increases the bio toxin level within them which takes in the poisons and is later consumed by humans. This mainly occurs from the month of October to March every year. This is something that cannot be prevented, but can be mitigated if the public take heed of the warning that is being raised during awareness. This is caused by nutrient excitement through surface run off through sanitation, habitat degradation, and high oil spills from industrial areas. SODELPA MP Viliame Gavoka questioned why there was no law in place to stop fishermen from selling poisonous fish. To this, Mr Koroilavesau said they cannot give a blanket ban for fishermen. “Consumers should make the right choice with the information available to them.

"And if they know that the fish is poisonous, then they should not buy it.” Posters of the poisonous fish and when they are normally poisonous are posted at fish markets around the country, Mr Koroilavesau said.