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This page is for current wild shellfish health alerts in Tasmania. You can find more information on the wild shellfish food safety page.
Toxic algal blooms (also known as harmful algal blooms or HABs) are currently known to be present in Tasmania. Elevated levels of algal toxins have been detected in shellfish from the region/s listed on this page.
Recreationally harvested shellfish should not be eaten because the algal toxins are harmful to humans. Seek medical help if you get sick after eating wild shellfish.
Health alert
Do not eat recreationally harvested mussels, oysters, clams, pipis, cockles, wedge shells abalone and scallop roe from the following areas:
- Cloudy Bay Lagoon located on the south of Bruny Island
- Adventure Bay located on the east coast of Bruny Island
These warnings were issued on 12 July 2024 and remain current.
What to watch out for
Wild shellfish
Wild shellfish include:
- Oysters, mussels, clams, pipis, cockles, wedge shells, abalone and scallop roe
- Intestines and livers (tomalley) of rock lobster can also be affected when toxic algal blooms are present
Symptoms
Symptoms can occur within minutes to hours after eating shellfish. Cooking or freezing shellfish does not destroy the toxins that cause shellfish poisoning. Shellfish poisoning symptoms include:
- tingling or numbness
- weakness
- blurred vision
- difficulty breathing
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
Paralytic shellfish poisoning
If you experience paralytic shellfish poisoning symptoms after eating wild shellfish, go to your nearest emergency department or call 000.
Seafood in shops and restaurants is safe
Seafood in shops and restaurants is safe to eat because the Tasmanian Shellfish Market Access Program (ShellMAP) monitors the safety of commercially grown shellfish.
