Rugulopteryx okamurae, an invasive seaweed from southeast Asia, has overtaken beaches along the strait of Gibraltar and southern Spain, threatening local biodiversity. Since May, 1,200 tonnes have been removed from La Caleta beach in Cadiz. Environmentalists warn that this seaweed, likely introduced via ballast tanks of ships through the Suez Canal, could disrupt local economies reliant on tourism and fishing. Experts note that controlling this invasion is becoming increasingly challenging, with significant ecological and economic consequences predicted if the invasion is left unchecked.
The invasive seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae is piling up on beaches in the strait of Gibraltar, posing a significant threat to biodiversity and local tourism.
Local authorities in Cadiz have removed 1,200 tonnes of Rugulopteryx okamurae, illustrating the overwhelming impact and the difficulty in controlling such invasive species.
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