An operation to remove 180 metric tons of salmon from a partially sunken wellboat contracted by Australis Seafoods is continuing.

The Heimdall wellboat operated by the Detroit company, was reportedly carrying around 24,000 fish worth an estimated $1.9 million (€1.89 million) when it ran aground in the strait of Magallen last week

All 13 crew members were safely evacuated from the vessel.

"Given the [air] tightness of the ponds, without recirculation systems operating, and the time that has already passed since the incident, there is no possibility that the fish will remain alive," a statement from the company said.