The fish ambulance tried to save what could be saved last weekend, but help came too late for many fish. When the volunteers notice, they try to move fish to a larger water, with more oxygen. But that is difficult, because things can go very quickly, says Kraal. “When you see the fish gasping for breath, it’s often too late.” Fish in ponds in people’s gardens also died. “I’ve had people crying on the phone,” says Kraal.
Gasping for breath: why many fish don’t survive heavy downpours
