Oysters are dying off in huge numbers in Japan

Japan's oyster industry is facing a severe crisis due to mass die-offs in the Hiroshima region, the country's top oyster-producing area. Farmers report that 80-90% of oysters in some locations are dead, impacting their livelihoods. The exact cause remains unclear, but potential factors could include high seawater temperatures, salinity changes, pathogens, harmful algal blooms or low oxygen levels.

Farm Minister Norikazu Suzuki visited the affected areas to assess the damage. He acknowledged the need for urgent investigation into the die-offs and promised government support for farmers. Similar oyster deaths are also reported in nearby Okayama and Hyogo prefectures.