Toxic Algae Bloom Devastates Marine Life, Hits South Australia Economy

A massive toxic algal bloom off South Australia's coast, caused by the Karenia mikimotoi species and aggravated by rising ocean temperatures and nutrient pollution, has devastated over 400 marine species and severely impacted local fishing and tourism industries. The bloom, which began spreading in March and now covers an area roughly twice the size of the Australian Capital Territory, has led to closures of oyster and mussel farms and caused widespread marine life deaths including sharks, rays, and invertebrates. South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas declared the event a 'natural disaster' and announced a A$14 million support package to aid cleanup, research, and business support, which matches a federal government contribution of the same amount. However, the federal government has not officially classified the event as a natural disaster, limiting additional federal assistance, a stance criticized by local politicians like Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young. The bloom's severity is linked to a marine heatwave that raised sea temperatures by about 2.5 degrees Celsius and flooding that increased nutrient levels in the water, both effects of climate change. Authorities continue to urge caution for swimmers and fishermen, as the toxic algae have made the beaches hazardous and depleted fish stocks.