Agal Bloom Information
The algae is the Karenia species. While some blooms are harmless, the current one in South Australia is harmful to fish and other marine animals.
This bloom has been caused by a combination of three events:
- Floodwaters from the River Murray in 2022-23 brought extra nutrients into the sea.
- A cold-water upwelling in summer 2023-24 lifted more nutrients to the surface.
- A marine heatwave since September 2024 has lifted water about 2.5C warmer than normal.
These conditions have been building over time. Warmer ocean temperatures, made more likely by climate change, have created the perfect environment for the bloom.
For more information: https://www.algalbloom.sa.gov.au/