AgronoBlog – Agriculture Blog What is Sargassum?
Sargassum is a type of marine algae belonging to the genus Sargassum. It is commonly known for forming large floating patches in the oceans, particularly in the Atlantic, and for its massive arrival on shorelines, especially in regions of the Caribbean and Latin America. These algae are brown and have floating structures resembling bubbles, which allow them to stay afloat on the water’s surface.
Where Does Sargassum Come From?
Sargassum originates in the Sargasso Sea, a region in the North Atlantic known for the accumulation of these algae due to marine currents. However, in recent decades, the sargassum arriving at the shores of the Caribbean and Latin America comes from a new formation area in the tropical Atlantic, known as the Central Atlantic Sargasso Belt.
Factors Contributing to Its Increase
- Climate change: Rising water temperatures favor its growth.
- Nutrient input: Agricultural and urban runoff brings large amounts of nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) to the ocean, feeding the proliferation of sargassum.
- Alteration of ocean currents: Changes in currents and winds are redirecting these algae toward the shores.
Impact of Sargassum on Beaches
Sargassum, when it arrives in large quantities on the beaches, can generate a series of ecological, economic, and social problems.
Negative Effects
- Ecological:
- Reduction of oxygen in the water, affecting marine life.
- Disruption of coastal ecosystems and coral reefs.
- Economic:
- Losses in tourism due to beach degradation.
- Increased costs for its collection and management.
- Social:
- Bad odors from decomposition.
- Affecting fishing communities.
Relationship Between Sargassum and Agriculture
Despite its negative impacts, sargassum offers opportunities in the agricultural field if managed properly.
Potential Uses of Sargassum in Agriculture
- Organic Fertilizers
- Sargassum is rich in potassium, calcium, and other micronutrients essential for plants.
- It can be transformed into compost, improving soil structure and fertility.
- Amendments for Degraded Soils
- The organic matter in sargassum helps recover eroded or nutrient-poor soils.
- Natural Biostimulants
- Sargassum extracts contain compounds that stimulate plant growth and improve crop resistance to adverse conditions.
- Biogas Production
- Its decomposition in biodigesters generates biogas, a renewable energy source, as well as a useful byproduct for fertilizers.
Precautions in Its Agricultural Use
It is important to wash sargassum before using it to remove salts and potential contaminants, such as heavy metals, that could negatively affect crops.
Seasons of the Year and Affected Areas
Sargassum typically reaches the shores between May and September, although its presence may extend depending on ocean currents and other climatic factors.
Areas Most Affected by Sargassum
- Caribbean: Mexico (Quintana Roo), Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico.
- Latin America: Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia.
- West Africa: Countries like Senegal and Cape Verde.
The Future of Sargassum and Agriculture
Sustainable management of sargassum could turn it into a valuable resource for agriculture, transforming an environmental issue into a productive solution. Through research and innovation, sargassum could play a crucial role in resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.