NEA attributes fish deaths to seawater intrusion during high tide, cleanup underway.

More than 200 fish were found dead in Singapore’s Marina South Canal on December 4, 2024, triggering public concern. Investigations by the National Environment Agency (NEA) confirmed that high salinity levels caused by seawater intrusion during high tide were responsible for the fish fatalities. Cleanup operations were promptly conducted to address the situation.

The discovery of dead fish in Marina South Canal on December 4 shocked passers-by, with videos shared widely on social media. The National Environment Agency (NEA) launched an investigation following feedback, confirming that high salinity caused by seawater infiltration was the primary factor.

At around 4:30 PM on December 4, a passer-by noticed a strong odour near Marina South Drive. Upon closer inspection, he discovered hundreds of fish floating lifeless in the canal. The video, shared by his wife, captured large fish drifting on the surface and some sunk to the bottom.

Photo: Must Share News (2024)

Responding the next day, NEA officers inspected the area and found no visible signs of pollution, such as oil sheens or discoloration. Water tests revealed elevated salinity levels, which NEA attributed to seawater entering the canal during high tide.

Experts highlight that freshwater fish are particularly vulnerable to high salt concentrations. The osmotic pressure causes water to flow out of their cells, leading to dehydration and eventual death. This aligns with observations of the Marina Barrage dam releasing water, which could mix freshwater with seawater.

NEA confirmed that their appointed service provider had cleared close to 200 fish from the canal. While NEA did not specify the species, videos showed large fish affected by the salinity spike.

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The viral video sparked public discussion. Some speculated pollution or contamination, while others argued the phenomenon was natural, caused by the barrage dam opening and displacing freshwater fish into saltwater environments.

The incident highlights the delicate balance in Singapore’s waterways, particularly when freshwater systems interact with seawater during high tides or barrage operations. For Singaporeans and visitors, it underscores the importance of environmental monitoring and swift response efforts to maintain water quality and ecological health.

Over 200 fish were found dead in Marina South Canal on December 4 due to high salinity levels caused by seawater intrusion. The NEA conducted cleanup operations and attributed the deaths to freshwater fish unable to survive in saltwater conditions.

Sources: Mothership SG, Must Share News (2024)

Keywords: Dead Fish, Marina South Canal, High Salinity