Trincomalee beaches covered in dead crabs

Following the passing of the cyclonic weather conditions, a large number of dead crabs are currently washing up on the beaches of the Trincomalee Inner Harbour and Outer Harbour.

This species of reddish crab was visible on the shore today (31) and yesterday (30).

As a result, a strong foul odour is spreading in the area. Authorities are using Urban Council and Pradeshiya Sabha workers to dig pits and bury the dead crabs on the beach.

In response to an inquiry regarding this, the Trincomalee Assistant Director of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Ishara T. Kamkanamge, stated that this is a natural occurrence that can happen due to the influence of cold and warm ocean currents, causing this species of crab to perish and wash ashore.

The Assistant Director mentioned that a similar situation was observed during the same time last year and that this crab species is unsuitable for human consumption and damages fishing nets.

The Assistant Director further stated that this situation is not a cause for great concern and is a natural phenomenon.