A large number of sardines have been found dead or dying along the west and south coasts of South Africa, prompting an investigation by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. While the exact cause of the mass mortality event remains under investigation, scientists are exploring several theories to explain the phenomenon.

The Independent reports that researchers are considering water temperature fluctuations as a primary factor, noting that changes in marine conditions can leave fish populations more vulnerable to disease. Conversely, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) highlights that scientists are specifically testing for the presence of pilchard herpesvirus (PHV). According to the SCMP, this marks the first time this specific virus has been identified in the region's sardine population, though it is not yet confirmed as the definitive cause of death.

There is currently no consensus on whether the die-off is the result of a single environmental trigger or a viral outbreak. Officials have not yet provided a final determination, leaving the cause of the event officially classified as under investigation. The scale of the event has drawn significant attention from environmental authorities, who are working to determine if the mortality is an isolated incident or part of a broader ecological trend affecting the region's marine life.