Coastal Restoration Trust of New Zealand

Coastal Dune Ecosystem Reference Database

Mass stranding of molluscs at Te Waewae Bay, Southland, New Zealand (note) Journal Paper

Author
Eggleston, D.; Hickman, R.W.
Year
1972
Journal / Source
New Zealand Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research
Volume
6
Number
3
Pages
379-382
Summary
A stranding of shellfish on the beach at Te Waewae Bay, Southland, occurred during a period of very cold, stormy weather in September 1970. More than 20 million shellfish were stranded, the majority being Mactra discors Gray. It is suggested that the cause was a combination of Strong inshore winds and low air temperatures, coupled with an increased flow of fresh, cold water across the beach.