Full Story South Australia’s algae bloom crisis
Jul 13, 2025
Tory Shepherd, a Senior Reporter for Guardian Australia, dives into the alarming toxic algal bloom crisis threatening South Australia’s marine life. She discusses how rising sea temperatures are exacerbating this disaster, impacting both ecosystems and local residents' health. The conversation highlights the harmful effects of the algae Karenia mikimoto and its potential to disrupt dolphin sanctuaries. Tory emphasizes the urgent need for climate action, juxtaposing the ecological degradation with the irony of a climate summit in the region.
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Personal Health Effects from Algal Bloom
- Tori Shepherd experienced respiratory symptoms after encountering the algal bloom, similar to asthma.
- Surfers have reported eye irritation, coughing, and respiratory trouble from exposure to the bloom.
Toxic Mechanism of Karenia mikimotoi
- The algae Karenia mikimotoi produces toxins that gum up fish gills and depletes oxygen in water.
- This dual effect causes suffocation and death for marine life over large ocean areas.
Climate and Nutrients Fuel Blooms
- Rising sea temperatures and nutrient influx from floods create ideal conditions for harmful algal blooms.
- These blooms persist and may repeatedly erupt as conditions are likely common in the region underwater.