Sargassum in Martinique: A New Threat to Wildlife? The GIP Sargasses takes regular action to try to limit the impact of sargassum strandings in Martinique … and yet. Despite all the resources mobilized, the impact on wildlife is significant and can be severe for the survival of species.
Taking Action Against Proliferation
With the large-scale proliferation of Sargassum, the Sargassum Public Interest Group (GIP) is taking action to address this issue. Collecting Sargassum at sea is one of the fundamental pillars of the effort to combat its proliferation. «Each operation involves specialized equipment, meticulous planning, and dedicated teams to limit the amount of seaweed washing up on our shores and to protect our environment,» the GIP Sargasses stated in a social media post.
Deployed since the 1ster March 2026: Collection is carried out using big bags using barrier nets. Once collected, the Sargassum is transported to storage barges in the towns of Le François and Le Robert. Fourteen fishermen are involved in this operation, along with the vessel Sargator.
Impact on wildlife
Action against Sargassum is all the more essential given the numerous consequences for biodiversity in general and for sea turtles in particular. «During the nesting season, these strandings can disrupt their access to beaches, complicate nesting, and reduce the chances of survival for hatchlings.»
In general, Sargassum blooms «pose an obstacle for females coming to lay their eggs,» according to GIP Sargasses. Similarly, the proliferation tends to «cover the nests» and «prevent hatchlings from reaching the sea when they emerge.».
If you see a turtle in distress, please contact the Martinique Sea Turtle Stranding Network (RETOM), whose emergency number is: 06 96 234 235. Please note that it is prohibited to handle these protected animals. As for Sargassum, only a coordinated response will help mitigate the threat to marine biodiversity.
