Scientist: Inhaling Decaying Seaweed On Great South Bay Harmful

EAST ISLIP, NY—Heckscher State Park in East Islip is one spot along the South Shore of Long Island that's seeing an increase in badly-smelling, and maybe harmful, seaweed.

The seaweed originally from Japan, is called dasysiphonica japonica, and its increasing presence points to elevated nitrogen levels in the Great South Bay. As it decays, it gives off a rotten odor.

Dr. Christopher Gobler directs The Center for Clean Water Technology at Stony Brook University and says that people should look out out for large amounts of decaying seaweed that smells rotten. Prolonged exposure could result in ill effects.

"Early symptoms could include airway irritation, headaches, and dizziness. Prolonged, high dose exposure could have pulmonary, neurological, and cardiovascular implications," Gobler told Patch.

The seaweed isn't dangerous when it's growing, only when it's decaying and releasing sulphur gas, he explained.

The seaweed has a reddish color and is considered an invasive species in North America. The scientists at Stony Brook are seeing higher levels than normal on beaches along the Great South and Peconic bays.