While a toxic red tide algal bloom is invading Florida’s beaches, a vast island of seaweed—spanning twice the width of the United States—is headed for the Sunshine state’s waters. It could seriously impact the tourism industry as Spring Break nears.
The mass of floating “Sargassum” seaweed is currently making its way slowly through the Atlantic and will likely hit Florida’s shores in weeks.
According to Mike Parsons, a marine science professor at Florida Gulf Coast University, red tide and Sargassum present problems along the shoreline.
The red tide, accumulating on Florida’s shores for several weeks, has killed marine life because it takes so much oxygen from the water. Masses of dead fish produce a foul stench. Moreover, the algae can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues when inhaled in sea spray….