Warning Issued as Pufferfish Wash Up on Cape Town Beaches

Residents and visitors in Cape Town have been urged to exercise caution as sightings of pufferfish washing ashore have been reported, particularly at beaches such as Fish Hoek and Glencairn. The City of Cape Town‘s Deputy Mayor, Eddie Andrews, emphasized the importance of not handling these pufferfish due to the presence of the neurotoxin tetrodotoxin, which poses a significant health risk. Dog owners are also advised to prevent their pets from coming into contact with the fish, as consumption of these pufferfish can be harmful to animals.

If a dog happens to consume one of these pufferfish, it is recommended to seek immediate assistance from the nearest vet to ensure the pet’s safety and well-being. The neurotoxin found in pufferfish can have severe effects on animals, and prompt action is essential in such cases.

Notably, this recent event of pufferfish washing up on Cape Town beaches is not an isolated incident. Around two years ago, a similar situation occurred in March, where a significant number of these fish were found along the False Bay coastline, including Muizenberg and Fish Hoek beaches. During that time, the City removed approximately 70 bags of pufferfish, totaling 200kg in weight.