The Great Atlantic sargassum belt, a massive 5,000-mile-wide seaweed bloom, is washing up on Florida’s beaches. Scientists warn of high levels of flesh-eating Vibrio bacteria in the decomposing algae.Plastic marine debris interacting with the bacteria could create a “pathogen storm.” Florida officials advise the public to stay away from the Sargassum whenever possible. NASA predicts this year’s seaweed bloom to be the largest ever recorded. The study reveals the dangerous interaction between plastic marine debris and Vibrio bacteria. The brown seaweed onslaught threatens Florida’s summer tourism season and emits a pungent aroma. Ocean pollution plays a role in the proliferation … Continue reading High Levels of Flesh-Eating Bacteria Found in Florida’s Seaweed Invasion: Pathogen Storm Alert