Urgent Call to Investigate Kangaroo Deaths on Fleurieu Peninsula

A species of miroalgae blooming on the south coast of the Fleurieu Penisula has been identified as cause of death for fish, marine life, and even leaving surfers sick. The species Karenia mikimotoi identified by the Environment Protection Authority, has caused disruption in the biodiversity of this South Australian beach. Disturbingly, dozens of kangaroos have been found displaying different behaviours, paralysed or dead.

Associate Professor Wayne Boardman, Environment Institute member and lecturer in wildlife conservation medicine and veterinary biosecurity at the University of Adelaide, weighed in on the situation. He emphasised the importance of thoroughly investigating the deaths of the kangaroos, rather than creating assumptions.

A fact that should not be ignored is the presence of dead fish, humans presenting with clinical symptoms, and distressed animals. These all point to environmental issues that can't be ignored. Dr Boardman challenged that the kangaroo deaths were caused by “phalaris staggers”, caused by ingestion of varieties of Phalaris grasses, given that this condition has not been observed elsewhere on the Fleurieu Peninsula or South Australia.

Professor Boardman called for the Department of Primary Industries and Regions to map the locations of the sick and dead kangaroos and investigate whether other deaths are occurring in the area. He stressed that environmental pressures, such as climate change, land degradation, run-off, and toxins, could be contributing factors, and understanding the cause is essential for future prevention.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions confirmed that its animal biosecurity team had investigated the site and have humanely euthanised around 50 kangaroos displaying severe neurological symptoms. Samples from the kangaroos and nearby water sources have been collected for disease investigation.

According to Professor Boardman, "It's important to find out for the future."

Read the full article featured in ABC Online, Xinhua News Agency, and China.org.cn.

Associate Professor Wayne Boardman Researcher Profile