Officials along Atlantic Beach said “sea sawdust” or
Trichodesmium were found in the water along the coast.
On Thursday, officials with Recreational Water Quality took
samples of water today after reports of a brown substance were found in the
water. Officials advised swimmers at 11:45 a.m. to avoid the water until the
substance was identified.
Officials confirmed the substance was what they called a “filamentous
cyanobacteria” and plays an important role in the marine ecosystem. In a post
on Facebook, officials said the algae are widely distributed throughout the tropical
and subtropical oceans and form distinct colonies that can be seen with the naked
eye.
Officials said Trichodesmium blooms are periodic and can
cover large stretches of ocean surface. The blooms are caused by several
factors, including warm water temperatures, nutrient availability, and calm sea
conditions.
While Trichodemium is essential to marine life, officials say
they are not safe for human consumption. If touched or ingested, officials said
cyanobacteria can cause skin irritation and sometimes lead to respiratory problems
due to the release of toxins and irritants.
Out of caution, officials advise swimmers to continue to
avoid the water until the blooms have cleared the area. Officials also say it is best to avoid any
discolored water or areas with an unusual smell.
If anyone comes in contact with Trichodesmium, officials say
to rinse thoroughly with fresh water and keep pets away from any affected
waters and shoreline areas.
Out of an abundance of caution, a swimming advisory remains
in effect for Atlantic Beach until these blooms have cleared the area. As a
general safety precaution, avoid discolored water or areas with unusual odor.
Rinse thoroughly with fresh water if contact occurs, and keep pets away from
affected waters and shoreline areas.