Sargosso Seas and Global Warming

Typically Sargasso is seen in the Northwest region of the Atlantic Ocean. And typically it is very beneficial to aquatic life in many ways. But recently, the Sargasso route has been changing due to the rise of nitrogen, iron, and phosphorus from the Sahara Desert sand. On top of this, with increasing temperatures, these masses of algae are growing rapidly as well as washing up more than ever in the Caribbean! Not only is this harmful to humans, but it is also harmful to some aquatic life. When it grows too thick, dolphins and turtles can no longer break through to the surface and often suffocate or choke to death. When sunlight can no longer reach the bottom floor, bottom life gets damaged to the point of extinction.

Sargasso sea can be extremely beneficial to oceanic life, but it can also be harmful. Let's take a closer look to better understand what creates this fine line and how it can be crossed. Once the Sargasso washes up on shore, it will then begin to decompose. In this state of decomposition, hydrogen sulfide gas/ammonia is produced in the first 48 hours of being on shore. When inhaled these gases can create symptoms like heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, vertigo, headache, and skin rashes (Denoble 1). The gases are toxic- Please be cautious and aware, for your safety, it is recommended not to swim in water with fresh Sargasso for it will burn your skin. When the Sargasso is black/dried on the sand, Be cautious for other forms of sea life to begin to habituate in dead algae.

Also, keep an eye out for what may have been dragged out with it; Sea Urchins for example. Sargasso Seas differ from other forms of algae mainly due to the fact that they are holopelagic; meaning, this form of algae reproduces not only on the top of the sea- but also floats freely as its own sea and ecosystem. Other algae begin life on the sea floor.