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Toxic Algal Bloom Reaches West Lakes as Port River Under Testing in Adelaide

Officials warn the bloom fueled by a marine heatwave could linger for at least another year

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The shell of a dead razor fish washed up on a beach.
An overhead view of West Lakes in suburban Adelaide.

Overview

  • Authorities confirmed Karenia mikimotoi in low levels at West Lakes and have begun monitoring the Port River to determine the bloom’s extent
  • Experts say ongoing marine heatwave and storm-driven currents have fueled the bloom’s spread and prevented natural cooling
  • Research shows the algae can sink to the seabed and re-emerge when conditions improve, raising the risk of recurrence beyond next year
  • Hundreds of marine animals, including dolphins, sharks and rays, have washed ashore dead since the bloom entered Adelaide waterways
  • PIRSA and SA Health warn that airborne algal particles and contaminated sea foam may cause respiratory, skin and eye irritation and advise against handling stranded sea life