The lobster population in the Oosterschelde has significantly decreased this year due to mass mortality. Lobsters caught during the fishing season, from March to July, were often weak.
Research by Wageningen University & Research (WUR) has not identified a cause, leading to a new investigation starting in January, which will also examine the mass mussel deaths. Researcher Jildou Schotanus from WUR noted that since 2016, mussel mortality has been inconsistent, with this year being particularly poor.
The potential connection between lobster and mussel deaths is yet to be determined. Some believe that steel slags, a byproduct from the steel industry used in coastal projects, may be causing lobster deaths.
However, WUR’s tests comparing lobsters from affected and unaffected areas found no significant differences. Additionally, investigations into pathogens and toxins revealed no causes.
The new research will be more comprehensive, assessing changes over the past decade in factors like water quality and human activity. It aims to verify the reported 90% lobster mortality and will last four years.
Source: NOS