South Australia is desperate for help to tackle an unprecedented harmful algal bloom that has decimated marine life up and down the coast. While the extent of the damage is still unknown, my preliminary research suggests there’s no end in sight. It may just get better over winter before it gets worse next summer.
The Karenia mikimotoi bloom first appeared in March on two surf beaches outside Gulf St Vincent, about an hour south of Adelaide. It has since spread, killing all kinds of marine organisms – from crabs and small fish to sharks and rays. Only the neighbouring Spencer Gulf, far west coast and southeast coasts have been spared. For now.
In preliminary research now undergoing peer review, I have predicted the bloom’s future spread using a new computer model. In the worst-case scenario, the harmful algal bloom would reach the Spencer Gulf and spread – from Port Lincoln to Whyalla and across to Port Pirie – next summer and autumn. That would be extremely bad news for the thriving seafood, aquaculture and tourism industries. They may need help to prepare.
