Algae mucus on the Adriatic: Challenges for vacationers and fishermen

Algae mucus on the Adriatic: Challenges for vacationers and fishermen

The effects of algae mucus on tourism

of dpa

26. July 2024, 7:02 a.m.

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Algae mucus on the water surface in the Adriatic (undated recording from the summer of 2024). Photo: Roberto Danovaro/dpa

a well -known phenomenon

Summer in the Adriatic is overshadowed this year by an unpleasant companion, the algae mucus. On the beaches of cities such as Rimini, Ancona, Ravenna and also in the Gulf of Trieste, tourists and locals have to deal with this slimy water attachment. The mucus is not harmful to health, but it can cloud the bathing pleasure considerably. Many holidaymakers are unsettled and take the aisle under the shower after a bath in the sea because the unpleasant feeling on the skin often leads to complaints.

historical roots of the problem

This phenomenon is far older than modern mass tourism. Already in 1697 the Cistercian monk Paolo Boccone noticed strange deposits on the beaches of the Adriatic. Historical reports testify that the sea was considered "dirty" not only because of the algae plague, but also because of the unpleasant smell. Such experiences could represent potential for today's tourism business; A conscious handling of environmental issues could lead to the long -term beaches remaining cleaner.

A look at the causes

The algae blossom in Adriatic, which has been in favor for a few weeks, is associated with the rising water temperatures and the associated climate change. Scientists have investigated that the algae mucus has changed the nutrient situation in the water in spring, such as the many rain in spring. The buttocks, Italy's longest river, rinses fertilizers and other harmful fabrics into the sea, which further exacerbates.

The economic effects

The advent of the algae mucus has extensive consequences not only for bathers, but also for local fishing. Smaller fishing boats can often no longer leak because their engines get stuck in the mucus. This impairs the income of the fishermen and has prompted the industry association Fedagripesca to request state support to address the challenges.

optimism despite the obstacles

Despite the current difficulties, Roberto Danovaro, marine biologist at the University of Ancona, is optimistic. He explains that the Adriatic is less dirty compared to 40 years ago. Current records indicate that bacteria in the sea are in the process of decomposing the mucus, which feeds hope that the situation quickly improves before the tower of tourists uses.

conclusion: a wake -up call for sustainable development

The algae mucus on the Adriatic is a wake -up call for tourism and environmental awareness. It shows that the sea ecosystem is sensitive to human activities. In addition to the justified worries about the seasonal income of the hotel industry and fishing, the long -term health of the marine environment must also be made priority.

- Nag