In recent weeks, millions of tons of seaweed have washed ashore on Caribbean beaches. This massive influx has led to hazardous conditions for wildlife and even resulted in temporary school closures.
In May, a staggering record of 39 million tons (37.5 million tons) of Sargassum overwhelmed various regions of the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean. A report from the Institute of Optical Oceanography at the University of South Florida highlights that this figure surpasses the previous record of 24 million tons (22 million tons) documented in June 2022.
Consequently, beaches stretching from Puerto Rico to Guyana have been heavily burdened with algae, with scientists anticipating ongoing flooding in the upcoming weeks.
According to scientists, “As in previous years, we expect a steady increase throughout June.” The report continues to note that Sargassum flooding is prevalent across most Caribbean nations and islands, as well as along Florida’s southeast coast.
Sargassum is characterized as a brown, spiky seaweed buoyed by air bladders. Every spring, its presence in the Atlantic and Caribbean escalates until summer, with a decline occurring in late autumn and winter.
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However, recent years have shown a marked increase in Sargassum growth. “The peaks appear to be escalating annually,” said Brian Burns, an assistant professor of physics and oceanography at the University of South Florida, in a report co-authored with the Guardian.
While the reasons behind this surge are still unclear, experts speculate factors such as agricultural runoff, warm temperatures, wind patterns, and rainfall may be contributing to this phenomenon, as reported by the Guardian.
Fresh Sargassum emits a typical seaweed scent, which plays a beneficial role in marine ecosystems. However, it often washes ashore alongside decayed Sargassum, releasing a combination of ammonia and hydrogen sulfide gases that can smell like rotten eggs. Chuang Minh Hu, a professor of optical oceanography at the University of South Florida and co-author of the report, explained this in an email to Live Science.
Schools in Martinique and Anguilla have faced temporary closures due to unpleasant odors emanating from the coastline. Experts warn that inhaling gases produced by decaying sargassum might pose respiratory risks.
“Large quantities of these gases can lead to respiratory issues, but typically people leave once they notice a foul smell,” Hu stated. “Those working in rotting sargassum should consider wearing masks for protection.”
Beyond the discomfort, decaying sargassum can be harmful to humans and wildlife alike. Substantial seaweed accumulation may suffocate coral reefs and seagrass beds, as reported by the Guardian, and can trap various marine life and birds.
In response, Caribbean officials are exploring various strategies to tackle the problem, including barriers to block Sargassum from reaching shore, emergency cleanup measures, and offshore storage barges. Nevertheless, the coming weeks may pose significant challenges to these initiatives.
“I anticipate that we will break new records in the weeks ahead,” Hu remarked.
Source: www.livescience.com