Toxic Algae Bloom Has Shut Down S. Australia's Shellfish Farms, As Well As Beach Harvesting
A royal commission is needed to tackle the long-term effects of the devastating algal bloom off South Australia's coast that has killed countless sea creatures and is damaging industries, the state's opposition says. The call comes as the impact of the bloom continues to spread, with mussel farming sites around Port Lincoln shut down after shellfish toxins were detected in the area.
The "precautionary closure", which came into effect on Wednesday, has suspended mussel harvesting at the Boston Bay, Bickers Island, Lower Eyre and Proper Bay sites, according to the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA).
The opposition said a royal commission would allow thorough examination of the causes and consequences of the Karenia mikimotoi bloom — as well as the responses so far, potential health impacts, and steps to prevent a repeat of the current crisis.
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Amid the exchanges, the bloom has continued to spread. "The bloom is spreading although it is not as strong as it was. It's at a lower concentration now," Ms Close said. The government last week shut down several Lower Eyre Peninsula mussel farming sites, on a temporary basis, because of shellfish toxins linked to the bloom. The site closures prevent the sale and movement of bivalve molluscan shellfish from the area.
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https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-13/algal-bloom-royal-commission-call-amid-mussel-farm-impact/105525088