Raised levels of naturally occurring algal toxins have been identified in another Argyll and Bute loch.

Monitoring work carried out by the council has identified increased levels of the toxins in Loch Fyne at Ardkinglas.

Eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels or razor fish from this area may pose a risk to human health, and notices to warn the public have been posted on the shore.

Commercial shellfish harvesters in the affected area have been contacted by the council, and steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside.

Loch Fyne at Ardkinglas is the latest area to be affected by raised levels of algal toxins this year. Loch Fyne at Stonefield has been closed for the same reason since March, and Loch Striven since April.

Loch Fyne at Skipness, Campbeltown Loch, Saddell Bay and Carradale Bay were all previously closed to shellfish harvesters, but re-opened earlier this month.

The council continues to monitor the algal toxin situation across Argyll and Bute. The warning notices at Ardkinglas, Stonefield and Loch Striven will be removed when the levels sufficiently subside.

It is a sensible precaution to avoid eating shellfish from these areas until further notice.

For further information, please contact the council’s environmental health team on 01631 567920.