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Thursday, July 28, 2011

Toxic algae swamps French beach

Toxic algae swamps French beach

Toxic blue-green algae has killed 31 wild boar in a cove in Brittany, northern France.

The algae is common on beaches in the area but turns deadly when it comes into contact with nitrogen waste flowing to the cove from intensive pig farms near the Gouessant estuary.

The gas is as toxic as cyanide, prompting local authorities to close nearby beaches.

In 2009 fumes from the seaweed-like sludge knocked out a council worker clearing the beach. A local horse rider also passed out and their horse died.

A dead boar lies amid the toxic algae in a cove near the Gouessant estuary. (Photos Getty)
A dead boar lies amid the toxic algae in a cove near the Gouessant estuary

In July 2010 beaches on northern France were swamped by green algae.

1 comment:

  1. This issue should be taken care of the local authorities, it so sad to see this helpless boar dies from algae. And residents from that area should be given a caution about this toxic algae or blanket weed.

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