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University of Florida

UF experts available to discuss sargassum “blob” and its potential impact on Florida

Karen Dooley
June 17, 2025

As reports resurface about the large mass of sargassum floating in the Atlantic — commonly dubbed “the blob” — University of Florida scientists are available to provide expert commentary and context. 

Sargassum is more than a beach nuisance. While it’s not unusual for sargassum to wash ashore in small amounts, researchers are closely watching what could be another above-average year. UF/IFAS experts Shelly Krueger, a Monroe County extension agent and with Florida Sea Grant; and Vincent Encomio, a St. Lucie County and Martin County extension agent and with Florida Sea Grant, can help explain what’s happening, what’s at stake and what to watch for. 

Key points about sargassum: 

  • It’s a naturally occurring macroalgae, often referred to as seaweed, and is part of an important ocean ecosystem. But today’s sargassum surge is largely driven by changing ocean currents and excess nutrients from human activity. 
  • The “blob” isn’t new. A vast belt of sargassum called the Great Atlantic Sargassum belt has been growing steadily since 2011, stretching across the Atlantic below the equator. It’s now a regular seasonal presence — largest from June to August. 
  • While sargassum is currently a significant problem in the Caribbean, whether Florida gets hit depends on wind and currents. Some locations in southeast Florida are already experiencing sargassum coming ashore, and according to the experimental sargassum inundation risk, some portions of the Florida Keys and southeast Florida are forecasted to be at high risk of sargassum inundation.  
  • When it does hit beaches, the effects go beyond aesthetics. As it decomposes, sargassum gives off a foul odor, discolors the water and can strain local tourism economies. In some areas, beach clean-up costs can reach millions of dollars annually. 
  • It’s also an environmental concern. Large sargassum mats can smother sea turtle nests, block light from seagrass and coral reefs and cause fish kills as the decaying algae depletes oxygen in the water. 
  • UF researchers are helping to monitor and respond. UF scientists, including Krueger, are working with partners like USF’s Optical Oceanography Lab to develop real-time forecasting tools that could improve beach response and cleanup planning. 
  • Media coverage may spike as the “blob” makes landfall. If the mass moves toward Florida shores this summer, UF experts can provide accurate, science-based perspective. 

Expert contacts available upon request: 

  • Shelly Krueger, UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant agent (shellykrueger@ufl.edu) 
  • Vincent Encomio, UF/IFAS Florida Sea Grant agent (vencomio@ufl.edu) 
  • Lisa Krimsky, UF/IFAS Water Resources Regional Specialized Agent (lkrimsky@ufl.edu)