With the increase in marine temperatures And the calm of the waters again peeks out an old acquaintance of the Apulian coastal ecosystems: Ostreopsis ovatathe so -called toxic seaweed. The first findings of theARPA PUGLIA report the presence of the body in different points of the Costa Barieven if the concentrations detected remain under the danger threshold.
Traces detected between Molfetta and Monopoli
The sampling points where the seaweed was found include Molfetta, Giovinazzo, Bari, Mola di Bari And Monopolies. In particular, a Molfetta they are recorded 2,080 cells per literwell below the critical threshold of 20,000 cells/liter. Higher, but still not worrying, concentrations a Holy Spirit (2,480), while the values are lower a Giovinazzo (1,720) ea Monopolies (240), where the seaweed was completely absent in the previous monitoring.
What is Ostreopsis ovata
Ostreopsis ovata is one Bentonic microalga tropicalmicroscopic dimensions (30–60 microns), which preferably colonizes rocky and macroalga seabed in hot waters, stopand and bright. Its peculiarity is the toxins production which, in the presence of storms, can be spread in the air through theMarino aerosolcausing temporary ailments in bathers.
The risks to health
Even if the current values do not indicate critical situations, the harp invites the prudence. In the coastal sections with ascertained blooms, it is better Avoid parking on rocks during stormswhen toxins can be inhaled. Also not recommend the consumption of seafood collected independently in the areas concerned, since these organisms can accumulate toxins during the grazing on the algae.
Monitoring and prevention
Environmental monitoring will continue on a basis fortnightly Until September, involving 20 coastal sites throughout the region. The analyzes of ARPA Puglia, also accessible online on the portal harp.puglia.itrepresent a useful tool to protect public health and preserve the fragile marine ecosystem of the Adriatic, increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
