A mysterious pink slime has appeared on secluded beaches in southern Tasmania, prompting fears of an algal bloom. The substance was first spotted on Randalls Bay, about 60km south of Hobart, and has since been reported on sections of Little Roaring Beach and Little Taylors Bay. Samples have been taken and sent to Tasmania's Environment Protection Authority (EPA) for testing.
An EPA spokesperson said algal blooms are a natural occurrence, often triggered by changes in nutrients, temperature, rainfall or light. The most common cause of such 'red tides' in Tasmanian waters is the marine phytoplankton Noctiluca scintillans, also known as 'sea sparkle'. However, the frequency of blooms has increased in recent years due to climate change and pollution.
Marine scientist Lilly Henley, who collected samples, said the bloom appeared to have 'grown significantly' in the last 12 hours and raised concerns about the salmon farming industry. She reported a tingling sensation on her arms and face after being splashed with contaminated seawater. Estuarine ecologist Faith Coleman noted that while sea sparkle does not produce toxins, it consumes small invertebrates and fish eggs, posing a risk to fish and crustacean species.
The Bob Brown Foundation has reported dead octopus and sea cucumbers washing ashore. Environmental campaigner Bob Brown described the situation as an 'environmental emergency' and called on Premier Jeremy Rockliff to take control. Rockliff said scientific testing was needed before linking the bloom to the salmon industry, adding, 'We need to ensure our water quality is managed appropriately.'
