In a surprising turn of events, prawn enthusiasts across Australia are rejoicing as the price of the crustaceans has plummeted by almost 50 per cent since Christmas. This significant drop in price can be attributed to an unexpected glut of prawns flooding the market, due largely to the recent devastating floods along the east coast of the country. Silver linings, we suppose?

The heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in various regions of Australia have had an unintended consequence: an abundance of nutrients from the land being washed out to sea. These nutrients serve as a bountiful feast for prawns, leading to a surge in their population and ultimately resulting in a remarkable increase in prawn catch by fishers.

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Australian fishers are reporting sizable hauls, the likes of which haven’t been seen for years, with their nets bursting with the critters. The abundant supply is prompting wholesalers and retailers to significantly reduce prices to move the surplus stock at a fraction of the cost compared to just a few months ago. In tandem with biosecurity warnings from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry pertaining to white spot disease in imported prawns, this is the perfect excuse to load up on the local affordable arthropods.

The prawn bonanza is likely to continue at least until summer 2023, providing an extended period of affordable prawns for consumers to enjoy. However, throw some caution that the abundance may dwindle as the prawns gradually consume the excess nutrients available in the water.

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