Salmon mortality in Magallanes reaches 642.5 tons due to algal bloom

A Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) in the Magallanes region of Chile has resulted in the mortality of 642.5 tons of salmon at Multiexport Patagonia S.A. cultivation centers. The impact was specifically noted at the Taraba 7 and 8 centers within the Salmonid Concession Groups 43 A and 43 B.

In response to the mortality exceeding local silage and storage capacities, the company activated contingency plans on October 8. These measures include using barges with mobile silage systems and specialized vessels to transport the dead fish to reduction plants in the Los Lagos region. Additionally, the Taraba 7 center initiated an early harvest to prevent further losses.

Chile's National Fisheries and Aquaculture Service (Sernapesca) is actively monitoring and inspecting the management, transport, and final disposal of the mortality. Regional Director Ximena Gallardo stated that the oversight aims to ensure sanitary compliance, timely removal, and the mitigation of risks regarding algal bloom dissemination and marine biosecurity.