Algae Colossus is drifting towards the Gulf Coast

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The swimming fun can pass you by. According to several American scientists, a huge algae mat is currently on its way to the Gulf Coast of the US state of Florida.

Particularly egregious: At about 8,000 kilometers, the network is twice as wide as the entire United States and is already considered the largest accumulation of algae in history.

The algae mat is currently floating between the African Atlantic coast and the Gulf of Mexico. The next destination will most likely be Florida soon.

“What we’ve seen on the satellite imagery doesn’t bode well for a clean beach year,” Brian LaPointe, a professor at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute, told NBC News.

Burning eyes and difficulty breathing

According to LaPoint, the beaches in Key West are already overgrown with algae. Mexico is also keeping a close eye on the phenomenon, as beaches in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum could also be particularly affected. Mexico already had to deal with a major algae plague last summer.

The researcher warns: the huge algae mat could soon become uncomfortable for Florida as well. The first effects are already visible. Recently, several residents of Florida’s southwest coast have been complaining of burning eyes and difficulty breathing. In recent days, dead fish have also washed up on the beaches.

The huge algal mat can provide a habitat for marine animals and even absorb carbon dioxide. However, it is also dangerous. The algae can have catastrophic consequences as they get closer to shore. For example, corals can be deprived of the sunlight essential to their survival.

‘It can block power plant intake valves’

It would also be dramatic if the algae decomposed at some point. Then they could release a large amount of hydrogen sulfide. The consequences for air and water would be disastrous.

According to the experts, the surrounding infrastructure is also at risk if the algae network remains floating in the coastal waters for too long. “It can block inlet valves in power plants or desalination plants. Marinas can be completely flooded and boats can no longer pass through them,” Brian Barnes, an assistant professor in the College of Marine Science at the University of South Florida, told NBC News.

The effects of the algae infestation are enhanced by the presence of nutrients such as nitrogen in the water. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission strongly warns against swimming in or near the water, as it can cause skin irritation, rashes, and burning and sore eyes. People with asthma or lung disease should definitely avoid beaches affected by the toxic algae. (ceded)

Source: Blick