Pink algal sludge in Tasmanian bays kills marine life, spurring health warnings and investigations.

A salmon-pink sludge, suspected to be an algal bloom, has been found in secluded Tasmanian bays, prompting environmental concern. Dead sea cucumbers, octopuses, and crabs have washed ashore, and residents are avoiding swimming due to cloudy pink water. Samples have been sent to the Environment Protection Authority for testing, with experts considering both natural causes and pollution as possible triggers. The Bob Brown Foundation warns that warming waters and nutrient runoff may increase risks, citing a 2025 toxic bloom in South Australia that devastated marine life and disrupted businesses. Premier Jeremy Rockliff said he was unaware of any link to salmon farming and affirmed ongoing government efforts to protect waterways, emphasizing the importance of Tasmania’s 1,200 beaches.