Cha-Am Beach Sees Rare ‘Fish Crowding’ Phenomenon as Locals Gather Seafood

[webfact]

 

On October 7, residents and tourists flocked to Cha-Am Beach in Phetchaburi Province to catch various sea creatures washed ashore due to a phenomenon known locally as "nuea bia," or “crowding water.”

 

Armed with nets and baskets, they collected blackfin seabass, cuttlefish, shrimp, and blue crabs, which had surfaced and were stranded along the beach. This bounty offered locals and visitors a rare opportunity to gather fresh seafood for meals.

 

The event attracted numerous people to the Cha-Am Beach viewpoint area, where the phenomenon was most visible. "Nuea bia" occurs when a large influx of freshwater flows into the sea along the coastline, causing oxygen levels in the seawater to drop.

As a result, marine life, including seabass and other sea creatures, rises to the surface in search of oxygen.

 

Witnesses reported that among the various sea creatures, the blackfin seabass was notably abundant. The influx of marine life provided a unique experience for visitors, who were eager to take advantage of the natural event.

 

Authorities have noted that while “nuea bia” can be a temporary boon for locals, it can also indicate disruptions in the marine ecosystem. As locals continue to gather seafood, officials advise them to observe responsible harvesting practices to avoid overfishing and to protect the area’s biodiversity.

 

Picture courtesy: Daily News

 

-- 2024-10-08

 

[hotchilli]

Free tucker, always a draw.

[thesetat2013]

You will never see signs for the end of times when in Thailand. Even when God tries to fill the beaches with dead sea animals. The locals grab them up to eat. Just kidding of course. But am curious about their suppositional claims with an abundance of fresh water in the sea.Did any government office do any actual testing to see if this was the real reason? Or are they just assuming to calm the publics perception?

[OneManShow]

The X-Files new season soon. 

[PETERTHEEATER]

Fish wash up dead onshore. The marine equivalent of 'fallen stock'.

Eat at your peril.

[impulse]

I suspect the story would have a different ending if it was foreigners collecting the fish.  And it wouldn't be a happy one. 

 

I'm always amused when foreign tourists are banged up just for "disturbing" the same species you'll find for sale in just about any Thai seafood market.  Of course, I doubt it's amusing for the divers on holiday, who get fined.

 

[loong]

2 hours ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

Fish wash up dead onshore. The marine equivalent of 'fallen stock'.

Eat at your peril.

Are they dead?
The article says that they are stranded, not dead.