Community respond to “apocalyptic” cuttlefish disappearance

During May to August tens of thousands of Giant Australian Cuttlefish gather in the Upper Spencer Gulf in South Australia to breed and lay eggs at the end of their lifespan.

This globally unique phenomenon is the only known mass breeding aggregation of Giant Australian Cuttlefish on earth, celebrated locally and generating millions into the local economy.

However, this year scientists and dive operators have observed only “dozens” of cuttlefish arriving to the coast. In response, the state government has placed a 90-day ban on boat tours and recreation water-based activities such as swimming and diving in the cuttlefish sanctuary zone off waters near Whyalla.