Australia's annual giant cuttlefish mating event, typically the world's largest, has experienced its lowest turnout on record, prompting fears of a significant population decline. Official figures released this month estimate only 1,811 cuttlefish gathered along South Australia's Cuttlefish Coast for the mating season, a staggering 97% decrease from last year's count of 63,000.
The sharp drop has raised alarms among conservationists and researchers, with some calling for the species to be officially listed as endangered. Adult giant cuttlefish typically die after breeding, making each mating season critical for the species' survival. This year, only approximately 440 eggs have been counted, a fraction of the millions usually laid.
Researchers from South Australia's Department of Environment and Water (DEW) conducted dives in July to assess the egg count. One diver, Manny Katz, described the low numbers as concerning. His team surveyed eight kilometers of coastline, searching rocky reefs, and found significantly fewer eggs than expected.
The state government is investigating the potential cause of the decline, with a toxic algal bloom that has affected the coastline for over 18 months being considered a primary suspect. This bloom has had a widespread impact on marine life along the coast.
The event usually attracts thousands of divers to witness the colorful mating displays of the giant Australian cuttlefish, a species endemic to Australia. The decline this year marks a stark departure from the phenomenon that usually draws significant tourism and scientific interest.