Caribbean in danger: 38 million tons of Sargassum algae threaten coasts!

Caribbean in danger: 38 million tons of Sargassum algae threaten coasts!

The Caribbean is currently faced with a dramatic invasion of Sargassum algae. According to Kosmo , 38 million tons of these algae have so far been registered, which is a new high. This is the largest amount that has been recorded in 2011 since the start of research by the Great Atlantic Sargassum belt. The previous record was 22 million tons in 2022. The explosive growth of the algae not only affects the environment, but also has a serious effect on the tourism industry in the region.

The concentration of the algae achieves explosive dimensions in the affected areas. The decomposition of the Sargassum releases hydrogen sulfide and ammonia, which are harmful to health and, in some cases, even led to the closure of educational institutions on Martinique. The algae that cause problems on the coasts block oxygen and sunlight, which leads to a risk to the coral reefs. Experts, including Brian Barnes from the University of South Florida, are looking for answers for this massive spread, while they examine various factors such as temperature, nutrients and water turbulence that favor the growth of the algae.

ecological and economic threat

The effects on tourism are considerable. In popular holiday resorts of the Caribbean, such as Cancún and Jamaica, the algae lead to unpleasant smells and block access to the sea. Well -known resorts have already taken measures to attract tourists by offering reimbursements or providing shuttles to unaffected beaches. Due to the financial restrictions of many regions, no protective barriers or effective clean -up campaigns are often possible, which exacerbates the situation. Barriers were built in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic to keep the algae in chess.

The algae blossom, which typically occurs from May to October, is a result of climate change and sea pollution. It is believed that additional nutrients from the Sahara dust contribute to the conditions that are responsible for the growth of the Sargassum. A disturbing aspect is that the rotting algae not only damage living things, but also contribute to the spread of both algae by releasing nutrients.

research and approaches

scientists examine possible exploitation paths for Sargassum to alleviate the effects of the algae. Carla Machado from the University of York and her team have considered to use the algae for the production of biogas or as a soil improvement. The algae of workers, the so -called "Sargazeros", are currently collected and brought to landfill. In addition, the algine content of the algae is examined, which could potentially be used as a thickener or in the cosmetics industry.

The current situation in the Caribbean is alarming and shows how closely the health, ecological and economic aspects are linked. Attention is growing to the Sargassum problem and it is clear that measures from the affected countries and the international community are necessary to counteract the challenges that are reinforced by climate change. The robust algae, which once served as a habitat for sea creatures, are now a threat to the ecological balance of the Caribbean and the livelihood of many residents.