New research has found part of South Australia’s harmful algal bloom is the most toxic microalgae ever studied.
Scientists say Karenia Cristata, one of the species detected along the state’s coastline, was around ten times more toxic to fish than any micro-algae previously tested.
The research looked to find out why the algal bloom was so devastating, with scientists now pointing to its potency as a major reason behind its eventual impact.
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The bloom started on the South Coast in March 2025, causing widespread marine life deaths as it spread throughout SA waters.
Karenia Cristata had never appeared in Australia prior to the algal bloom event, with cases in South African and Canadian waters.
