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Unprecedented Toxic Algal Bloom Devastates South Australia's Marine Life

The bloom, spanning 4,400 km², has killed over 200 species, raised shark activity concerns, and shows no signs of dissipating as marine heatwave persists.

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The algae -- Karenia mikimotoi -- is causing mass deaths in species including sharks, rays, crabs and octopuses
A vast bloom of toxic algae is killing more than 200 species of marine life off the coast of South Australia
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Overview

  • The toxic algae Karenia mikimotoi, identified in March 2025, has caused mass marine life deaths across South Australia's southern coast.
  • Spanning 4,400 km², the bloom is fueled by a marine heatwave with sea temperatures remaining 2°C above average and calm seas since September 2024.
  • Authorities report significant ecological damage, including gill injuries in fish, and predict a prolonged recovery for affected ecosystems.
  • Shark sightings and strandings have surged, with experts linking this unusual activity to biotoxins from the bloom, though toxicology results are pending.
  • Beachgoers are warned to avoid discolored or foamy waters due to skin and respiratory irritation risks, as the bloom persists without weather conditions to dissipate it.