Mysterious foam at Aussie beach sickens surfers as 'extremely rare' creatures wash up
A popular surf beach in the country's south has been declared off-limits to the public as authorities investigate a mysterious, murky brown foam that's blanketed the shoreline, resulting in numerous marine animals washing up dead.
Environmental authorities in South Australia have urged the public to avoid contact with the sludge-coloured foam at Waitpinga Beach, around 15 kilometres south-west of Victor Harbor in the state's southeast, as they work to determine the cause.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) confirmed it had launched an inquiry into the seemingly noxious substance, which has seen dead fish, octopus and a whole host of other sea creatures, including rare leafy sea dragons, dot the shoreline.
Local man Anthony Rowland regularly visits the spot. He was surfing with a group of friends on Saturday morning when they suddenly erupted in a coughing fit, which he said lasted the entire day. He also reported having sore eyes and a sore throat after being exposed to the foam.
He shared multiple photos on social media showing the incredible extent of the sludge as well as dead marine life that had been affected.
Rowland said the discovery of multiple dead leafy sea dragons was the "most concerning" element for him. "We found a handful [of them], they're extremely rare to see washed up," he told 7NEWS.
According to PIRSA, fish kill events can occur due to a variety of factors, including environmental changes like temperature fluctuations, rainfall or drought, water quality issues such as salinity or oxygen depletion, as well as disease or pollution.
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The foam has also been observed at nearby Parsons Beach, as well as Kings Beach and Petrel Cove. On social media, dozens responding to Rowland's post reported also feeling unwell after being in the ocean.
"Got unwell from surfing at Middleton yesterday as well," a woman said. "My partner and I were there on Friday afternoon ... approaching the car park there was a noticeable chemical-like smell," another added.
"Immediately I began coughing and felt a burning nostril sensation the whole time. Short of breath."
In Australia, sea foam has been known to sometimes cause coughing and breathing difficulties, particularly when it contains high concentrations of organic material, harmful algal bloom or pollutants.
When strong winds and wave action churn up decaying algae and other organic matter, the resulting foam can release aerosols containing irritants.
In some cases, exposure has been linked to respiratory issues, especially for those with asthma or other pre-existing lung conditions. Harmful toxins can be released into the air, potentially leading to throat irritation, coughing, and breathing difficulties.
SA's Environmental Protection Agency told 7News it appears a harmful algae bloom is behind the toxic foam, which most likely occurred as a result of a marine heatwave — higher water temperatures combined with low winds and small swells. Yahoo News Australia has sought comment from the EPA.
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