The marine disaster threatening South Australia

2025-07-22

Sharks, seals, rays, octopus, dolphins - these are just some of the marine species that have washed up dead on South Australian beaches in recent months. A toxic algal bloom that has been lingering off the state's coast since at least March is being blamed for the mass kills. It's a story that has now gained national attention, with the federal government announcing $14 million in funding this week. As calls mount for the government to declare a national disaster, scientists are warning the danger could spread to other states....

Sharks, seals, rays, octopus, dolphins - these are just some of the marine species that have washed up dead on South Australian beaches in recent months.

A toxic algal bloom that has been lingering off the state's coast since at least March is being blamed for the mass kills. It's a story that has now gained national attention, with the federal government announcing $14 million in funding this week.

As calls mount for the government to declare a national disaster, scientists are warning the danger could spread to other states. Today, we're unpacking everything you need to know about this story, including the science behind it and what it means for the future of Australia's marine ecosystems.

Hosts: Emma Gillespie and Billi FitzSimons
Producer: Orla Maher

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