South Australia’s seafood industry is bracing for the long-term impact of the state’s toxic algal bloom, which could linger for at least another year.
Environment Minister Susan Close revealed today that new research indicates the bloom could remain for the next 12 months and beyond, and there’s little that can be done about it.
“I want to prepare people for thinking this is not something that is likely to pass quickly and is likely also to return at some point,” she said.
The algae, according to Close, will subside to the seabed as temperatures decrease, “and simply wait on the seabed for conditions to return and to start a bloom again”.
“What we’re experiencing now is the effects of climate change,” she said.
The impact of the bloom has hit the state’s seafood industry.
Glenn Hill from Coorong Wild Seafood told 9News he is worried about job losses if the bloom worsens, mirroring the closures already experienced by some oyster farms and fisheries.
“If the worst comes to pass, it will be a case of well, there’s no food left,” he said.
“If there’s no food left, there will be no fishing.”
Despite the challenges, the government has sought to reassure consumers.
“People should rest assured that buying seafood from SA is safe,” Close said.
Adding to the environmental concerns, a large stingray washed ashore at Grange Beach, and a great white shark was found at Port Broughton.
The algal bloom is being closely monitored along metropolitan beaches, with concerns it could extend into the Port River and West Lakes.
“We have to be prepared for this,” Close said
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
