Invasive alga on the coast of Sines threatens local biodiversity

The alga Rugulopteryx okamurae, a species originating from the Mediterranean Sea, has been proliferating on the coast of Sines, representing a threat to the marine biodiversity of the region. The presence of this invasive species has grown significantly in recent times. The increase in ocean water temperature and abnormal sea agitation are pointed out as the main causes of this proliferation. The situation worries specialists and local authorities, who are closely following the evolution of this biological invasion on the Portuguese coast.