On Sunday, the DLRG had to issue an absolute swimming ban for the beaches of the Baltic Sea resort of Eckernförde. The reason for this is a carpet of blue-green algae that has been driven into Eckernförde Bay by the easterly winds of the last few days.
They are not actually algae, but cyanobacteria. These occur regularly in the Baltic Sea in summer, multiplying vigorously and then dying off, especially in light, sunny weather, as has been the case in recent weeks. The dead bacteria drift across the Baltic Sea as large blue-green carpets. Some of the cyano strains develop strong neurotoxins that can lead to allergic reactions, nausea if swallowed and, in the worst case, to liver damage and death.
As the seaweed carpets are driven by wind and currents, it is difficult to predict how they will develop on German beaches.
The Swedish Hydrographic Institute provides information at this link about the current status.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
