Cuba Seaweed: Current Conditions and Impact on Marine Ecosystems

Cuba, located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, in recent years, the country has been grappling with a growing problem of seaweed invasion, particularly the Sargassum seaweed. The Cuban Institute of Meteorology and other scientific entities are keeping a watchful eye on this issue, monitoring the latest seaweed conditions and their impact on marine ecosystems.

Sargassum seaweed is a type of brown macroalgae that floats freely in the ocean and originates from different areas of the Atlantic Ocean. This floating alga can break the balance between the different species of marine organisms, jeopardizing the optimal functioning of this type of ecosystem. In recent years, an exaggerated presence of these floating algae has affected gorgonians, corals, and sponges in the Caribbean Sea. The massive accumulation of sargassum is transported by ocean currents to the Caribbean, and it poses a significant threat to marine life when it reaches the coast and becomes immobile.

The Cuban Institute of Meteorology relies on data from the Early Warning Satellite System of Sargasso (SATsum) SIMAR-CONABIO to monitor the estimated Sargasso in the Caribbean Sea. According to the latest data, the estimated Sargasso in the Caribbean Sea has an extension of 60,787 square kilometers and a wet weight of 9,249,408 tons. The excessive presence of this seaweed, related to climate change and human activities, has become a major environmental issue for the country.

The accumulation of sargassum can produce sulfur dioxide and an intense odor, causing significant toxicity to humans and marine organisms. The decomposing sargassum pollutes the water and can cause the death of fish that live near the shore. The sulfur dioxide gas emitted from decomposing sargassum can cause nausea, tearing, headaches, and loss of sleep. Therefore, experts recommend not exposing oneself to the gas and its odor.

While floating, sargassum provides shelter and food to the inhabitants of the sea. However, when it accumulates on the coast, it begins to decompose, creating an unsightly and potentially hazardous environment. The decomposition of sargassum releases large amounts of nutrients into the water, which can lead to the formation of harmful algal blooms. Harmful algal blooms can lead to a lack of oxygen in the water, leading to the death of marine life.

In conclusion, the growing problem of seaweed invasion, particularly the sargassum seaweed, is a major environmental issue for Cuba. The excessive presence of sargassum in the Caribbean Sea is related to climate change and human activities. This floating alga can break the balance between the different species of marine organisms, jeopardizing the optimal functioning of marine ecosystems.

Experts recommend caution when exposed to the odor and gas emitted from decomposing sargassum. It is essential to continue monitoring the latest seaweed conditions to ensure the preservation of the marine ecosystem and maintain the beauty of Cuba's beaches.

Source: CMHS Radio Caibarién