The Green Invader: How a Seaweed is Changing Moroccan Coasts

Since 2017, a foreign seaweed known as Rugulopteryx okamurae has been wreaking havoc along Morocco's northern coast. This isn't just an ecological concern; it's also disrupting the lives of those who rely on the sea for their livelihoods.

Research Findings (2019-2022)

Researchers have been monitoring this invasive species and discovered alarming amounts of seaweed washed ashore, particularly in M'diq and Asilah:

• 2019: M'diq was inundated with 358 tons of seaweed.
• 2021: Asilah saw 242 tons of the invasive species.

Impact on Local Fishers

The economic toll is severe:

• 91% of fishers in M'diq report a decline in income due to the seaweed.
• Beyond financial losses, the seaweed is altering coastal habitats, with long-term ecological consequences still unknown.

Ideal Conditions for Spread

The warm waters of the Mediterranean, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C and reaching up to 26.9°C, provide the perfect environment for Rugulopteryx okamurae to thrive.

Call to Action

This crisis demands urgent attention:

• More research
• Enhanced monitoring
• Effective management strategies

The seaweed is here to stay, and proactive measures are essential to mitigate its impact.