26-Jul-2006
- Environment Agency Wales is asking people not
to be alarmed if they see large slicks of algae
that look like sewage in coastal waters and estuaries
around South Wales. This follows recent reports
to us about odours and water quality issues along
the coast from Aberafan, Port Talbot to Southerndown,
Porthcawl.
The slicks are more than likely
to be seasonal algal blooms. The yellow-brown
coloured slicks are the most common type of marine
algae, Phaeocystis, which is often described as
having a chocolate mousse appearance.
The algae usually starts to
form in the summer, around June or July.
Phaeocystis forms unsightly
creamy brown foam in the water which turns darker
brown and lumpy as it decays. This looks very
similar to raw sewage. As the algae breaks down
it smells strongly of rotten eggs or vegetables,
causing further confusion. However, despite its
smell and appearance, the algae is not toxic.
"Every year we get reports
of sewage slicks on inshore coastal waters and
of course we treat each one seriously and carry
out tests. But almost always, despite its unpleasant
appearance, it turns out to be a marine algae,"
said, Julie Tate Senior Environment Officer for
the Bridgend Area.
There are some species of algae
that can pose a health risk to marine life and
to humans. These are less common and in some cases
cause discolouration of the water known as Red
Tides.
"If you see one of these
less common blooms or have concerns that what
you see is not algae please contact our free 24
hour hotline 0800 80 70 60."
Heledd Evans
