Andros: Dead Fish Flood Beach on the Island

Since mid-September, the mortality of fish in the Epinephelidae family has been on the rise. Many dead fish have been washed ashore, and many others have been observed dying at the sea's surface.

This phenomenon is particularly intense in Crete, especially in the Lassithi Regional Unit, as well as in Cycladic islands like Tinos, Syros, and Andros.

The increased mortality of fish, particularly from the family Epinephelidae (including groupers, sea bass, and barramundi), continues to be a significant concern as they face Viral Encephalopathy.

On Saturday, a video captured almost ten large groupers in advanced stages of decay on a beach in Andros, highlighting the extent of the problem.

Recently, a fisherman from Eastern Crete discovered dead fish, some floating at the surface and others on the seabed, in advanced decay alongside some that were half-alive. As shown in a photograph, one of these fish had been attacked by a shark.

Although Viral Encephalopathy does not threaten public health, it raises serious issues for fishing, the environment, and the economy. Monitoring and documenting this phenomenon, along with the cooperation of all stakeholders, is vital for effective management.

Special Seminar on Addressing the Issue

According to boatfishing.gr, a seminar was held in Sitia, initiated by the Municipal Port Authority of Sitia and supported by the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (ELKETH), to discuss Viral Encephalopathy, which is considered the cause of increased fish mortality. The meeting took place in the Sitia Municipal Council chamber, with participation from researchers, biologists, Coast Guard officials, and representatives of professional and amateur fishermen.

Key Points Discussed:

• Dr. Pantelis Katharios (ELKETH): Emphasized that the virus exclusively affects fish and does not pose a public health risk. However, he warned that the dead fish washing ashore should not be consumed.
• Dr. Nota Peristeraki (Biologist – Ichthyologist): Called for collaboration among all parties involved to document the phenomenon and draw safe conclusions systematically.
• Eleni Psohiou (Head of the Fisheries Department of Lassithi): Praised the initiative of the Port Authority and the Municipality of Sitia, noting the need for broader cooperation to tackle the issue.

Professional fishermen, represented by their president Dimitris Tsirigotis, expressed deep concern, as the ongoing deterioration of the situation directly threatens their livelihoods. They have observed dramatic changes in the aquatic environment, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Sitia Mayor George Zervakis described the meeting as significant, given that Sitia relies heavily on its water resources. He emphasized the need for continuous updates and collaboration to address the problem effectively.

Manolis Ailamakis, president of the Sitia Port Authority, announced plans to establish an information and action network to manage the phenomenon immediately and rationally.