A significant outbreak of harmful algae off the coast of South Australia has caused widespread devastation to marine life, impacting local tourism and fishing industries. Described as a natural disaster by state Premier Peter Malinauskas, the algal bloom, covering an area of 4,500 square kilometers, has resulted in the death of over 400 marine species.
Attributed to increasing ocean temperatures, the bloom, primarily caused by the Karenia mikimotoi algal species, has led to a depletion of oxygen in the water, affecting fish gills. The state’s Environment Department highlighted that a marine heat wave in 2024, with temperatures 2.5 degrees Celsius above average, contributed to the bloom’s growth.
Malinauskas announced a $12.5 million support package to address the crisis, matching federal government funding to aid cleanup operations, research initiatives, and business recovery. This unprecedented event is unprecedented in the nation’s coastal history, emphasized the Premier.
Experts, including marine science professor Michael Parsons, warn that climate change could lead to more frequent and severe algal blooms as warmer waters become more conducive to toxic algae growth. Increased rainfall due to climate change also plays a role in nutrient runoff into the water, fueling the growth of such blooms.
The environmental impact has been substantial, with reports of over 13,850 dead animals, including sharks, rays, and invertebrates. The algal bloom has disrupted tourism activities and forced temporary closures of oyster and mussel farms due to waterborne toxins. The long-term effects on the ecosystem are concerning, as toxins move up the food chain, potentially leading to prolonged impacts on fish populations and oxygen depletion in the waters.
While the state Premier has declared the event a natural disaster, Australia’s environment minister, Murray Watt, stopped short of labeling it a national disaster, which would enable increased federal support. The situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the environmental and economic repercussions of the ongoing algal bloom crisis.