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Giant seaweed blob twice the width of the US takes aim at Florida

We Never Know

No Slack
Could make things a mess.

Giant seaweed blob twice the width of the US takes aim at Florida


"TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Marine scientists are tracking a 5,000-mile-wide seaweed bloom that is so large, it can be seen from space.

These sargassum blooms are nothing new, but scientists say this one could be the largest in history. At last check, it was heading toward Florida’s Gulf coast.

The thick mat of algae drifts between the Atlantic coast of Africa and the Gulf of Mexico, providing habitat for marine life and absorbing carbon dioxide, but it can also wreak havoc when when it gets closer to shore. It blocks light from reaching coral and negatively impacts air and water quality as it decomposes.

Florida’s Gulf coast is already grappling with an algae bloom amid the busy spring break tourism season. Red tide has caused dead fish to wash ashore in droves, while the risk of respiratory irritation for humans has canceled events and driven beachgoers away.

With a blanket of sargassum approaching, spanning twice the width of the continental U.S., scientists warn that Florida beaches could soon be inundated with seaweed.

“It's incredible,” Brian LaPointe, a research professor at Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute told NBC News. “What we're seeing in the satellite imagery does not bode well for a clean beach year.”

 
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Stevicus

Veteran Member
Staff member
Premium Member
Sounds a bit nasty.


Decomposing sargassum can create a foul smell when it starts to decompose along the beaches. As it rots, it gives off a substance called hydrogen sulfide, creating an order akin to rotten eggs.

Although the seaweed itself cannot harm your health – according to Florida Health – tiny sea creatures that live in sargassum can cause skin rashes and blisters.

The Gulf Coast is already dealing with a flare-up of the toxic red tide algae with residents are complaining about burning eyes and breathing problems.

Dead fish have washed up on beaches and a beachside festival has been canceled, even though it wasn’t scheduled for another month.

Isn't seaweed edible?

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