Red tide blamed for fish deaths along Kuwait’s Coast: EPA
The Environment Public Authority (EPA) revealed that recent fish deaths observed along parts of Kuwait’s coast are linked to a bloom of phytoplankton — commonly known as Red Tide — which reduces dissolved oxygen in the water, leading to fish suffocation and a visible change in sea color.
Sheikha Al-Ibrahim, Director of Public Relations and Media at the EPA, told the Kuwait News Agency that the phenomenon is recurring and intensifies at the start of summer each year due to rising sea surface temperatures in the Arabian Gulf.
Following the circulation of videos and photos on social media, EPA teams swiftly inspected beaches in Ushairij, Doha, and Shuwaikh. They conducted environmental surveys, field measurements, and collected samples for laboratory analysis.
Preliminary tests confirmed the proliferation of a specific phytoplankton species, which is often associated with oxygen depletion and discoloration of coastal waters. Al-Ibrahim also pointed to the impact of coastal human activity, especially near rainwater outlets, in exacerbating red tide occurrences and degrading water quality.
The EPA has urged citizens, residents, and fishermen to report any fish die-offs to help authorities respond promptly. Ongoing field surveys will continue along Kuwait Bay to monitor conditions and protect marine life.
