The Rugulopteryx okamurae, an invasive alga of Asian origin that does not belong to Portuguese marine ecosystems, is rapidly expanding on the coast of Sines. This species was first identified on the Portuguese coast in 2019 and has since been proliferating significantly in that region of the Alentejo coastline.
Researchers have been closely following the phenomenon and monitoring the progression of the alga along the coast. The accelerated growth of the species raises concerns among specialists regarding the potential negative effects on the local marine ecosystem.
The expansion of Rugulopteryx okamurae represents a threat to the marine biodiversity of Sines, since, not being native, it can compete with local species for space and resources, altering the balance of the coastal habitats of the region.
