Mexico Turns Sargassum Into Valuable Fishery Resource

Mexico City, Mexico — What was once considered a nuisance for Mexico’s Caribbean beaches may now become a significant economic opportunity. Sargassum holopelagic, the floating macroalgae that inundates coastlines seasonally, has been officially recognized as a fishery resource with development potential in the latest update of the National Fishing Charter. The decree was published on August 6 in the Diario Oficial de la Federación.

A Shift in Perspective: From Problem to Resource

The update was conducted by Mexico’s Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRICULTURA) in coordination with the Mexican Institute for Research in Sustainable Fishing and Aquaculture (IMIPAS), the National Commission of Aquaculture and Fishing (Conapesca), and the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat). This marks a crucial step toward the sustainable utilization of marine resources.

Far from being mere marine waste, sargassum forms floating “oases” in open waters, serving as critical habitats for valuable species such as dorado, tuna, and jack mackerel. Additionally, it plays vital ecological roles, including carbon sequestration, absorption of heavy metals, and coastal erosion protection.

Industrial and Ecological Potential

Scientific research led by IMIPAS has demonstrated that sargassum holds substantial potential as a raw material for multiple industries. Applications range from fertilizers and biofuels to bioplastics, dyes, eco-friendly bricks, and animal feed.

According to official estimates, Mexico could collect up to 945,000 metric tons of dried sargassum annually using specialized vessels, such as the Sargassum Oceanic Vessel developed by the Secretariat of the Navy. However, the rapid growth of sargassum—capable of doubling its biomass in less than three weeks—also presents challenges.

Challenges and Management Strategies

Experts at IMIPAS emphasize the need for comprehensive management plans, continuous monitoring, and specific regulations under an Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) framework. This approach would involve collaboration between authorities, academia, and the private sector.

Transforming sargassum into a well-utilized resource could mitigate its impact on tourism and the environment while opening new avenues for sustainable economic development in the Mexican Caribbean. What was once synonymous with algae-covered beaches and foul odors is now emerging as a valuable ecological asset with promising future applications.