Scientists in South Africa investigate why large numbers of sardines are washing up dead or dying along parts of the country’s west and south coasts, including deaths reported this month. Researchers are examining sardines from affected areas, taking samples from fish that are dead and those still alive.
One reported line of inquiry is a herpesvirus detected in the sardines, identified as pilchard herpesvirus (PHV). Sources say the country’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has been unable to explain the cause so far, and scientists are working to determine whether the virus is responsible. South China Morning Post notes that PHV has been identified in the sardines in this context, while other outlets focus more generally on the investigation into a possible viral cause rather than specific prior findings.
Overall, reporting converges on an ongoing scientific investigation, with researchers testing whether the presence of PHV in affected fish correlates with the mass mortality event.
