Red waters at Soliman beach caused by natural algae bloom, environmental group says

The striking red coloration of the waters recently seen by beachgoers at Soliman and El Jahmi beaches in Tunisia has been identified as a natural occurrence. An environmental protection association has clarified that the phenomenon is not due to industrial pollution.

Souad Chettouti, a member of the Association de protection de l’environnement de Soliman, explained that the impressive visual display is caused by a massive proliferation of a specific species of red algae. The pigmentation of these algae reflects on the sea's surface, creating the red hue.

Field investigations conducted by the association's team have definitively ruled out the possibility of industrial wastewater discharge from local factories or sewage treatment plants. Initial visual analyses of water samples showed them to be clear and transparent, indicating the absence of chemical or organic contaminants at the time of inspection. Scientific examination of the samples confirmed the presence of Rhodophyta, a naturally red micro-algae.

The association used this clarification to reassure citizens and swimmers about the quality of the beach waters. They also emphasized the importance of relying on scientific findings when observing sudden changes in the marine environment.

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The visual phenomenon is caused by the massive proliferation of a species of red algae whose pigmentation is reflected on the sea's surface.