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NewsWSVN 7 MiamiAugust 21, 2026Miami-Dade

FAU researcher reports record-breaking sargassum seaweed accumulation on Gulf and Caribbean beaches

A Florida Atlantic University researcher reports that sargassum seaweed blooms have reached record levels, with 38 million tons estimated in 2025 and 33 million tons in 2026. The accumulation is causing environmental impacts on coastal ecosystems and potential respiratory concerns for those exposed to decomposing piles.

environmentmarine biologysargassumFloridacoastal management
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Why It Matters

The continued growth of seaweed impacts coastal tourism, marine habitats like coral reefs, and public health due to the release of gases during decomposition.

Key Facts

  • An estimated 38 million tons of sargassum were recorded in 2025, the largest amount on record.
  • An estimated 33 million tons of sargassum were recorded in 2026.
  • Accumulated sargassum blocks sunlight from reaching seagrass beds and coral reefs.
  • Decomposing sargassum lowers oxygen levels in water and releases foul-smelling gases.
  • Prolonged exposure to decomposing sargassum may cause respiratory distress in humans.
  • Sargassum blooms negatively impact tourism in affected coastal areas.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFlorida Atlantic University“Academic institution conducting research”organizationSunbeam Television Corp.“Copyright holder of the article”personEllyn Willse“Graduate research assistant at Florida Atlantic University”