Ostreopsis Ovata
Ostreopsis ovata are microscopic algae that thrive in warm, still, shallow waters on rocky coastlines.
What is Ostreposis ovata?
Originating in tropical areas, they are believed to have reached temperate regions of the planet partly due to climate change, which made the Mediterranean suitable to their development. The microalgae were first observed in France in 1972, and are now regularly found in the summertime along the Mediterranean coastlines of France, Italy and Spain.
“A recent proliferation that scientists attribute in part to climate change currently going on.”
Why should we be concerned about Ostreopsis?
When conditions are favourable to their development, Ostreopsis ovata proliferate and release a toxin that can harm marine biodiversity and coastal users. Ostreopsis ovata can therefore infect swimmers, watersports enthusiasts and all other users of the sea and coast.
