Temporary ban to protect Whyalla's 'significantly low' cuttlefish numbers

South Australia has implemented a temporary 90-day ban on in-water recreational activities in the Upper Spencer Gulf to safeguard the breeding grounds of the giant Australian cuttlefish. This measure comes as the species has arrived in "significantly low" numbers this year, a stark contrast to the tens of thousands usually seen during their annual migration.

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The ban, effective from Wednesday, covers the cuttlefish sanctuary zone between Black Point and Stony Point. Environment Minister Emily Bourke emphasized the importance of minimizing impact in this critical breeding area. Activities prohibited include swimming, snorkeling, diving, and vessel anchoring, though tours can still operate at Point Lowly. Bourke warned that breaching the zone could result in fines of up to $100,000.

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This is the area where we predominantly see the eggs being laid, where we see breeding happening between our cuttlefish and that's why it's important we minimise the impact on our cuttlefish in this area.

The decision followed consultations with local tour operators, divers, and the Whyalla City Council. Minister Bourke stated the ban could be lifted if cuttlefish numbers improve. Affected tour operators may be eligible for the government's algal bloom support grant for small businesses.

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If people accidentally find themselves in this temporary restriction area, it could range from a warning, if people proceed to operate in this area, there could be fines of up to $100,000.

Mike Steer, executive director of the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), noted that while slightly elevated water temperatures might still bring cuttlefish, the current count shows significantly reduced numbers. He explained that the primary goal is to encourage the limited spawning activity and ensure successful egg hatching by leaving the cuttlefish undisturbed. Factors like an algal bloom, present in northern gulf waters during late December and January, are being investigated as potential causes for the reduced arrivals, alongside temperature and food availability, which are known drivers of cephalopod populations.

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What we want to do is to encourage the small amount of spawning that's happening there at the moment. Plus, we want to encourage the successful eggs and hatching, so the best thing we can do is leave them undisturbed, and that is the reason why this management strategy is put in.