The recent appearance of sargassum on the Yucatan coast is an isolated event, according to biologist Salvador Castell. He emphasizes that it's highly unlikely that the Yucatan will experience the same sargassum influx as Quintana Roo.
Castell explains, "The likelihood of Yucatan experiencing sargassum washes similar to those in Cancún, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen is very low. The ocean current off the Yucatan coast is not as warm as that of Quintana Roo. This cooler temperature inhibits the growth of the algae, and the current's force sweeps it away, preventing it from reaching our shores."
The sargassum spotted in Progreso may have been brought by minor shifts in marine currents or possibly carried by Hurricane Beryl. Despite the low probability of a sargassum invasion like Quintana Roo's, Castell acknowledges the changing environmental conditions.
He notes, "Marine pollution is increasing, and sea temperatures are rising. These changes are leading to more frequent and intense sargassum washes. While we currently have factors working in our favor, if we do not take action, our advantageous position may not last in the coming years."
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