Overview

• Tasmania's south-east coastline is experiencing its largest bioluminescent algae bloom in nearly a decade, featuring Noctiluca scintillans, also known as 'sea sparkles.'
• The algae emits a striking blue glow at night, captivating onlookers, but appears as red streaks during the day, often referred to as 'pink slicks.'
• Experts warn that the bloom is an indicator of ecosystem imbalance, linked to excess nutrients from agricultural and aquacultural activities.
• The algae depletes oxygen levels, releases harmful ammonia, and consumes vital plankton, posing significant risks to marine life and aquaculture operations.
• While the algae is not harmful to humans, it may cause mild skin irritation, and its presence is expected to lead to increased jellyfish populations as the bloom dies off.