Dominican Republic Turns Sargassum into Fish Attractors

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic — Researchers in the Dominican Republic are testing a novel approach to repurpose sargassum, the seaweed that annually inundates Caribbean shores, by transforming it into floating rafts designed to attract fish and aid local fishermen. The initiative, named "Fisheries Associated with Sargassum Aggregation Devices (DSAP)", is a collaborative effort between the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) and the National University Pedro Henríquez Ureña (Unphu).

How the Sargassum Rafts Work

The project aims to create Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs) using sargassum as the primary material. These floating structures, anchored to the ocean floor, provide shade and shelter for fish, attracting marine life such as turtles and even mammals. While FADs are already a proven tool for fisheries, this marks the first large-scale attempt to construct them from sargassum, potentially reducing reliance on plastics and repurposing a resource typically viewed as a nuisance.

Pilot Location and Implementation

The initial trial will take place in Los Negros, a southern Dominican fishing community with an existing cooperative that utilizes traditional FADs. The sargassum rafts will be deployed approximately 20 miles offshore near Las Caobitas Beach, at depths ranging from 700 to 1,000 fathoms. To minimize ecological disruption, the devices will be positioned away from coral reefs and nearshore ecosystems.

Potential Risks and Mitigation

Researchers acknowledge concerns about the rafts breaking apart and washing sargassum back ashore. However, they emphasize proactive monitoring and repairs to prevent such incidents. The project also prioritizes avoiding sensitive habitats, ensuring minimal impact on coral reefs and coastal marine life.

A Sustainable Solution with Economic Benefits

Yira Rodríguez, a researcher involved in the project, described the initiative as a "green technology"—innovative, environmentally friendly, and economically viable. Currently, fishermen spend between $850 and $1,200 to construct a single FAD using materials like plastic or bamboo. Sargassum-based FADs could significantly lower these costs while addressing the persistent challenge of seaweed accumulation.

The project represents a dual opportunity: mitigating the environmental burden of sargassum while bolstering local fisheries. If successful, it could serve as a model for other Caribbean nations grappling with similar ecological and economic pressures.