Observing the evolution of the South Australian Harmful Algal Bloom 

The South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) monitored and reported on the evolution of the HAB to inform industry and the public. SARDI produced information about environmental conditions specific to the HAB using IMOS Satellite Chlorophyll-a imagery and ocean circulation forecasts from the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) eSA-Marine system, which is underpinned by IMOS National Reference Stations, South Australian moorings and Ocean Radar.  

In 2026, new collaborative research involving the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), SARDI, and CSIRO revealed the algal species, Karenia cristata, dominating this bloom has long been a natural resident in South Australian waters. The research team took advantage of a library of archived DNA samples that had been collected as part of the IMOS Marine Microbiome Initiative.

CSIRO researcher and leader of the IMOS Marine Microbiome Initiative Dr Jodie van de Kamp said, “A fundamental part of our program is the long-term storage of DNA samples. This enabled us to go back and analyse this extensive, decade long collection, providing a window into past conditions and increasing our understanding of the current algal blooms in South Australia. We don’t always know which rare members of the microbiome may one day become problematic, nor do we always have the tools to measure them. The value of these archived DNA samples and the important role of the IMOS Marine Microbiome program is that it provides vital insights for understanding current conditions and managing future challenges.”

IMOS delivers sustained ocean observations that underpin the collaborative research crucial for understanding events such as the harmful algal bloom in South Australia.

Find out more about the Harmful Algal Bloom