Asian seaweed invades Algarve beaches

The western Algarve coast is being invaded by an Asian seaweed, causing accumulations that in some cases has created barriers on beaches up to 1.20 meters high, and which could potentially affect tourism and fishing.

in News, Portugal, Environment, Algarve · 28 Jun 2023, 16:05 · 3 Comments

The invasive brown algae originates from Japan and Korea. Local authorities, such as Lagoa Council, have already spent significant amounts to clean the affected beaches and remove hundreds of tons of seaweed.

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Comments

What a shame, poor tourists.!!!!!!!!

By F from Porto on 28 Jun 2023, 18:02

You need to identify this seaweed. There are excellent seaweed experts in Faro University use them!

By Glyn Sharp from Other on 28 Jun 2023, 21:18

This is a serious issue as it effects wildlife, the local economy and amenities for locals and yes it will affect tourists without which the Algarve economy would collapse. The only good thing is that by affecting the economy something will be done or at least tried. It seems ironic that 'Pedra do Valado' reef project has just opened after many years of negotiations and now as many snorkelers like myself know the underwater landscape is covered in this invasive 'seaweed'. My fear is that nature will loose and tourists will go. Another factor is that Barlavento or western Algarve is made up of many beautiful small coves which catch and hold on to the floating weed depositing it on the beaches. My local spot was knee deep in this weed for two years. This is a serious problem and will destroy all I have mentioned.

By Chris from Algarve on 01 Jul 2023, 08:58