(FILE) Mats of floating Sargassum provide a habitat for marine life and can trap sand on the beach, however too much of it can be a problem for beachgoers.
A massive seaweed blob so large that it is visible from space is heading towards the Florida Gulf coast.
According to WFLA-TV, the 5,000 mile-wide sargassum bloom could be one of the largest in history.
The brown seaweed that floats in the ocean and is washes up on Florida beaches in large amounts provides an important habitat for migratory organisms – including crab, shrimp, sea turtles, and commercially important fish species such as tuna and marlin, according to Florida Health.
The thick algae mat that drifts between the Atlantic coast of Africa and the Gulf of Mexico can 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.
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.
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Fonzimandias on March 13rd, 2023 at 17:38 UTC »
I hope it doesn’t touch my foot
GreenOnionCrusader on March 13rd, 2023 at 17:21 UTC »
It's going for spring break.
mdkdm on March 13rd, 2023 at 16:59 UTC »
Just for reference NYC to London is 3459 miles