In Odesa, the sea has "bloomed": there is a terrible stench

In Odesa, the sea has "bloomed": there is a terrible stench

In Odesa, a massive blooming of the Black Sea is observed - ecologists have detected a significant excess of harmful substances.

This was announced by the State Environmental Inspectorate of the Southwestern District.

"In recent weeks, residents of Odesa and vacationers on the beaches have noticed a significant accumulation of algae brought to the shore by waves. The water in the coastal zone turns green, dirty yellow, or brown," the specialists report.

As they note, state inspectors have taken samples of seawater within the city limits, in areas where algae form an almost continuous layer on the surface. It has now become known that the analysis results showed exceedances of the norms. In particular, suspended solids are 1.5 times above the norm, which reduces water transparency, decreases light penetration, and affects the photosynthesis of aquatic plants.

There is also an exceedance of ammonium nitrogen by 5.5 times above the norm. Experts explain that this is a toxic compound resulting from the decomposition of organic residues. It is dangerous for aquatic organisms, especially at high temperatures and low oxygen levels, and can cause fish kills.

"An excess of nutrients in the water contributes to the process of eutrophication - the so-called ’blooming’ of the sea, which is accompanied by oxygen deficiency and deterioration of the marine ecosystem," the statement reads.

According to the Odesa Regional Center for Disease Control and Prevention, from August 4 to August 10, 200 cases of intestinal infections were recorded, nearly 130 of which were minors. The most affected group is children aged 1-4 years (41.3%). Among the total number of patients, 7.5% linked the infection to swimming in water bodies, including the sea.