Weedy Seadragons Surge, Leafy Seadragons Vanish in SA

0:00This is Adelaide News today, powered by AI and presented by the Daily News now. Divers in South Australia are spotting a big surge in Weedy Sea Dragons at the popular Rapid Bay dive site. One diver even saw 30 of them in a single dive a few weeks ago. But the state's Marine emblem, the Leafy Sea Dragon, has vanished from Rapid Bay and nearby Second Valley, where it used to be common. Experts point to climate change in a recent harmful algal bloom as the culprits behind these odd shifts. Warmer ocean temperatures are pushing marine species into new areas with Weedy Sea Dragons showing up where they are rarely seen before. Divers for climate CEO Dr. Yolanda Waters highlighted how these firsthand observations from divers reveal real changes in the oceans. She stressed the value of divers as key sources of information on marine life movements. Diving instructor Carl Charter, who leads tours in the area, has tracked fewer Leafy Sea Dragons and suspects many die during the algal bloom.

1:00With hundreds washing up dead on beaches, he noted through citizen science efforts. Meanwhile, the number of Weedy Sea Dragons has started to drop off in recent weeks, signaling these patterns may not last. Waters expects more unusual species sightings across the country as waters continue to warm. D&N is sponsored by our partner. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone. Lay back and listen, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-I-Pillow.com.