The algal bloom may be 'gone', but many are still grappling with the fall-out
Although the South Australian government has declared the algal bloom 'effectively clear' after more than a year, communities along the coast continue to face environmental and economic challenges. Recreational divers and marine experts report significant declines in marine life, with some species potentially taking years to recover. Fishing restrictions, particularly on squid, are expected to impact local businesses and fisheries despite the reduction in Karenia levels.
- ▪The algal bloom, first detected in March 2025, is now considered effectively clear along South Australia's coastline according to the state government.
- ▪Recreational diver Jeff Bowey has observed a dramatic decline in marine biodiversity near Port Augusta, describing recent dives as revealing a 'barren desert'.
- ▪Professor Ivan Nagelkerken from the University of Adelaide warns that slow-reproducing species may take years or even decades to recover from the bloom's effects.
- ▪Squid fishing has been restricted in Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent, affecting both commercial operations and tackle shops like Tackle World in Port Lincoln and Port Augusta.
- ▪Tackle shop owner Alicia Bolitho expects a significant drop in profits due to the closure of squid fishing during what is typically a peak season for sales.
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The algal bloom may be 'gone' but regional South Australians are grappling with a changing environmentBy Duncan Bailey and Jenae MaddenABC Eyre PeninsulaTopic:Marine Biology15m ago15 minutes agoThu 30 Apr 2026 at 8:03pmRecreational diver Jeff Bowey has been diving the waters off Port Augusta for the past 10 years. (ABC News: Will Hunter)In short:Fishing restrictions will be ramped up on May 1, after certain stocks have been heavily depleted.In Port Lincoln and Port Augusta, tackle shop owner Alicia Bolitho is expecting to lose a chunk of her profits with the closure of squid fishing in the Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent.What's next?Adelaide University professor Ivan Nagelkerken said some species may take years, or decades to recover, depending on how fast they…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).