Monitoring work carried out by the council has now identified increased levels of the toxins at Campbeltown Loch, Saddell Bay, Carradale Bay and Loch Fyne at Skipness.

Two areas – Loch Fyne at Stonefield and Loch Striven – were already closed to shellfish harvesting.

Eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels or razor fish from any of these areas may pose a risk to human health, and notices to warn the public have been posted at various locations on the shore.

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

The council continues to monitor the situation at all locations, and the warning notices will be removed when the levels sufficiently subside.

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