Karenia mikimotoi Algal Bloom – Information for the Community
Parts of Kangaroo Island's coastline continue to be affected by a naturally occurring marine algae bloom caused by Karenia mikimotoi. This event is also impacting sections of the Fleurieu Peninsula and southern Yorke Peninsula.
The bloom has led to significant marine life deaths and may cause mild health symptoms such as skin, eye or throat irritation in some individuals, particularly after exposure to discoloured or foamy water or sea spray.
What you should do:
- Avoid contact with discoloured, foamy or odorous water
- Report fish deaths to Fishwatch on 1800 065 522
- Report injured or deceased marine mammals to Parks SA on 08 8207 7700
There is currently no treatment or method to remove the bloom. It is expected to ease when weather and ocean conditions change.
Lead agencies
This is a state-managed environmental event. The following agencies are leading the response:
- Department for Environment and Water (DEW) – environmental monitoring and signage at relevant sites
- PIRSA – marine species impact monitoring
- SA Health – public health advice regarding human exposure
Council is liaising with these agencies and will share further updates as directed. We encourage residents and visitors to refer to official sources for the most current information:
Council thanks the community for its understanding and will continue to support the coordinated response to this issue.