The annual sargassum invasion is once again overwhelming beaches across the Caribbean, affecting tourism, local communities, and marine ecosystems. Vast mats of the brown seaweed have been washing ashore in record amounts this summer, raising concerns among hoteliers, fishermen, and environmental authorities alike.
Sargassum, a free-floating seaweed native to the Atlantic Ocean, has surged in recent years due to warmer ocean temperatures, nutrient runoff from rivers, and shifting currents. While it plays an important role at sea by providing habitat for fish, turtles, and birds, its accumulation along coastlines creates major challenges. Decomposing sargassum releases hydrogen sulfide gas, which produces a pungent odor and can cause respiratory irritation in
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