Port River outbreak 2018 – feral oysters
In February 2018, routine research was conducted to improve early detection of Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS). This uncovered an outbreak of the virus in feral Pacific oysters in the Port River.
The virus is now endemic in the Port River, with ongoing detection throughout 2018 and 2019. The most recent detection was in January 2020.
To date, the POMS virus has not been detected in South Australian commercial oyster farming areas, with ‘proof of freedom’ declared on Friday 6 April 2018. The nearest commercial growing area is approximately 60 km away.
Reducing the risk of POMS
To reduce the risk of POMS spreading, PIRSA has implemented a ban on the removal of all bivalve organisms (oysters, mussels, cockles, razorfish) from the Port River system.
Bivalves should not be taken from the Port River area for any purpose, including bait or berley. See closure map ().
In addition to the ban, testing and monitoring of the feral oyster population and POMS outbreak in the Port River remains in place. PIRSA is working closely with the oyster industry on state-wide early detection disease surveillance.
Strategic knockdowns of feral oysters, both in the Port River and in regional areas, have also been occurring, noting that total eradication in the Port River is not achievable.
How you can help
Fishers and boat owners can help prevent the spread of POMS by following these steps before their vessels leave the Port River for other areas of the state:
- Ensure vessel hulls are clean and remove traces of plants and animals from fishing and boating equipment and clothing so you don’t transfer pests and diseases to other waterways. Boat owners should refer to the guidelines for vessel cleaning practices.
- Where possible, wash boats and equipment with light household detergent, rinse with tap water without letting the water drain into waterways, and dry them completely before moving to another waterway. Download the POMS decontamination fact sheet ().
- Adhere to the ban on removing bivalve shellfish from the Port River system from West Lakes to Port Gawler, including Section Bank. Bivalve shellfish such as oysters, mussels, cockles, and razorfish should not be taken from the Port River area for any purpose, including bait or berley. See closure information.
- Never use seafood sold for human consumption (including imported seafood) as bait or berley.
POMS is a notifiable disease and must be immediately reported.