Mass deaths of lobsters in Song Cau town, Phu Yen province, Vietnam. Image source: TTXVN
According to the Institute of Aquaculture III, the affected farming area is located in the back beach area of Vinh Hoa and Phu Duong villages in Cu Mong lagoon. The lagoon has a narrow opening to the sea, and the density of farming cages is high, with over 11,000 cages for lobsters and various marine fish species. The water circulation in the area is poor due to the high density of cages. The seabed is muddy and covered with a thick layer of shellfish remains, ranging from 0.4 to 0.6 meters. The muddy seabed emits a putrid odor. Dissolved oxygen levels are inadequate for lobster and marine fish farming, and water temperatures are higher than usual for this time of year.
The Phu Yen Sub-Department of Animal Health sent two samples of dead lobsters to the Regional Department of Animal Health for testing. Both samples tested negative for Rickettsia-like bacteria, commonly known as lobster disease.
Associate Professor and Dr. Vo Van Nha, Director of the Institute of Aquaculture III, advised farmers to remove empty cages from the water to improve water circulation during high and low tides. He also recommended raising the cages closer to the water surface and providing shade to keep the water cool. Additionally, farmers should prepare air pumps and oxygen tanks or oxygen pills to prevent lobsters and fish from suffocating due to localized low oxygen levels.
It is crucial to regularly collect and remove dead lobsters, fish, garbage, and excess feed from the farming area. Close monitoring of the lobsters and fish, as well as weather conditions, is necessary 24/7, especially during low tides at night, to allow for timely intervention.
According to the People’s Committee of Song Cau town, from May 18 to 23, 281 households with 1,631 lobster and marine fish cages were affected. The total loss was estimated at over VND 38.4 billion, with 67 tons of lobsters and 62 tons of fish dying.
