The algal bloom devastating South Australian marine life has now been found in the Port River.
Testing has identified the presence of the harmful algae species Karenia mikimotoi in the river, with significant concentrations detected around Garden Island and Outer Harbor, which are close to the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary.
“That is the new location. However, as I mentioned, it’s not surprising because this area is essentially part of the coastline. Being completely open to the sea, you would anticipate it ending up there,” said Acting Premier Susan Close.
“It has come too late,” oyster farmer Steve Bowley said.
“It’s never going to be enough… the lease fees are a great start, and we thank the government for that, but we appreciate this is just the beginning of the journey, not the conclusion.”
The opposition has called for increased and sustained financial assistance to the industry.
“Really disappointing on hearing from a fisher that they’ve worked out it’s only about $500 per fisherman that they’re actually going to be supporting them,” opposition spokesman David Basham said.
It’s unclear exactly how long the bloom will last, but many believe South Australia could see the effects for up to five years.
