Record-Breaking Algae Bloom Kills Wildlife in Australia

Beaches in Australia are filled with dead sharks, stingrays, crabs, and squid. An unusually large toxic algae bloom is causing concern in the country as it lingers off the south coast, killing wildlife and destroying the fishing industry.

The algae Karenia mikimotoi, which damages fish gills and suffocates them, covered 4,400 square kilometers when it was first observed in mid-March.

While authorities in the state of South Australia had hoped that the bloom would dissipate, it has instead spread throughout the area. The Australian government is allocating funds to deal with the algae, and the state is holding a crisis meeting on the issue on Tuesday.

A heatwave in the sea in the area is said to have largely subsided, but continues in some deeper waters.

“Mass death”

It is difficult to overstate how extremely serious this environmental crisis with algae blooms is in South Australia, marine biologist Adriana Verges at the University of New South Wales told AFP.

We are talking about widespread mass deaths of nearly 500 different marine species. It is completely devastating.

Ian Mitchell, who runs a fish market in Adelaide, says that some have not had a catch since April.

“It’s the worst I’ve ever seen,” he told ABC television.

“I talk to fishermen every day, and they’re crying on the phone.

Nutrient-rich sewage from flooding and unusually high sea temperatures are believed to be behind the algae bloom.

Warning sign

Historically, it can take years for the fishing and aquaculture industries to recover from such algae blooms, according to Paul Gamblin, head of the environmental organization Australian Marine Conservation Society.

“This is a huge flashing red warning sign that climate change has arrived in Australia and is causing major consequences,” he told AFP.

South Australia has never before experienced a toxic algae bloom this large and this long-lasting.

Beachgoers are advised to avoid swimming in water that is discolored or foamy, as it may irritate the skin and affect breathing.