Algae monitoring buoys ahoy!

Six hi-tech monitoring buoys which will automatically detect future harmful algal blooms before they reach our shores are being deployed across South Australian waters.

The state-of-the-art oceanographic moorings are equipped with specific sensors for early detection of key harmful algal bloom (HAB) species such as Karenia. If a HAB species is detected, an immediate alert is sent to scientists via satellite communication.

They also provide real-time, continuous monitoring of critical parameters including temperature, salinity, chlorophyll, dissolved oxygen and turbidity.

The sophisticated monitoring system strengthens South Australia’s ability to detect, track, research and forecast coastal water quality and harmful algal blooms.

The moorings will form a core component of the South Australian Integrated Coastal Water Quality Monitoring and Forecasting System, a comprehensive scientific program led by the new Office for Algal Bloom Research in conjunction with CSIRO.

The monitoring system builds on the existing Integrated Marine Observing System moorings which have been in place in open waters off the coast since 2008, with the new moorings enabling coverage in inner coastal areas.

The first two monitoring buoys are being installed at St Kilda and Stansbury in Gulf St Vincent today, with the remaining four sites to be finalised in consultation with industry.