Recreational fishers catching blue swimmer crabs in the Swan and Canning Rivers are reminded to remove the head, guts (mustard) and gills from crabs caught in these rivers before freezing, cooking or eating them. We also remind fishers to land and transport their blue swimmers home whole, unless they plan to eat them immediately.
This caution is due to the detection of the toxic alga Alexandrium in the Swan river in December, and during the last two crab seasons.
Alexandrium can produce Paralytic Shellfish Toxins, which can accumulate in crustacea and mussels. Eating affected crabs and mussels may be dangerous and in extreme cases, fatal. If you become ill after consuming crabs or mussels seek medical attention promptly.
At this stage recreational fishing will remain open for blue swimmer crabs (December 1 to August 31 inclusive) in the Swan and Canning rivers. However, we remind river-users to pay attention to signs and watch out for Alexandrium updates in the media and outdoor/fishing tackle stores.
For more information, read the full media release or visit www.fish.wa.gov.au/alerts or www.dbca.wa.gov.au/algal-bloom for FAQ and an informative flyer and video showing how to clean crabs properly.