Sargassum is a form of seaweed found in the Caribbean. Under certain conditions it can proliferate and cause "brown tides" along the coastline.
Botany: brown seaweed (class Phaeophyceae)
As the seaweed decomposes it releases hydrogen sulfide gas which is:
(1) toxic if inhaled
(2) able to trigger asthmatic attacks
(3) an eye and skin irritant
(4) unpleasant to smell, often compared to rotten eggs
(5) flammable
The accumulation of the rotting seaweed can become quite thick, impeding beach access and fouling propellers.
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Specialty: Emergency Medicine
