The 2018 record still holds for collecting more than 522,226 tons of this microalgae.
As the current sargassum season comes to an end, authorities and experts are already planning for the next period. According to the Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring Network, estimates indicate that 2025 will be a high season for the state’s coasts.
Combat Strategy
This year, nearly 37,000 tons of sargassum were collected in shallow waters and on beaches in the state, a 60% increase from last year, which ended with more than 22,000 tons of sargassum. However, this is still far from the 2018 record of over 522,226 tons.
State Governor Mara Lezama stated that they will continue working with all levels of government and the private sector to keep the beaches clean. She mentioned that more than 125.6 million pesos were invested this season by the Secretariat of the Navy (SEMAR) and the State Government.
“We will continue working 24/7, without rest, to maintain clean beaches. We are also committed to building the most beautiful pages in the history of Quintana Roo, which undoubtedly include our beaches and the Caribbean Sea. Quintana Roo is a state that grows in the face of adversity,” she said.
Future Projections
Recent studies suggest that factors such as rising ocean temperatures and increased nutrients in the water are creating favorable conditions for a surge in sargassum proliferation next year. However, this phenomenon may shift towards the Lesser Antilles.
“We may see an early arrival of sargassum around January or February, with a peak in April or May. If the trend of the past two years continues, we could have a smaller amount in summer as it diverts north,” said Esteban Amaro Mauricio, director of the Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring Network.
Preventive Measures
Biologists recommend taking preventive measures to mitigate the impact of sargassum, such as improving waste management that ends up in the ocean and exploring more efficient techniques to collect and use sargassum sustainably.
Source: Por Esto
