More than 1000 dead fish wash up on Perth shoreline

More than 1000 dead fish have washed up along the shoreline of some of Perth's most affluent suburbs. 

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) said the fish kill is the result of recent significant freshwater flows into the Swan River, affecting scaly mackerel and other marine species including some crabs and starfish. 

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DBCA principal scientist Kerry Trayler believes fish have washed up in at least 10 locations, with Point Walter and Freshwater Bay among the worst affected.

"We tend to see a level of deoxygenation occurring in some areas of the waterway and as a result that can affect our fish communities can affect species not able to move readily," Trayler told 9News.

The freshwater influx is the result of recent rainfall and inflows from the Avon River.

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"Freshwater flows are really good for the waterway and create connectivity," Trayler said.

Whilst threatening to some wildlife, the flows are part of the system's natural cycle and benefit the river system.

"The birds and the dolphins are having a field day out there today really enjoying those fish we don't believe the fish have been impacted by any pollution," Trayler said.

The department is collecting water and fish samples to confirm the cause. 

There is a warning for people and pets to avoid swimming in impacted areas and not to collect or eat the washed up fish.

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