Climate Change is already visible in the Alboran Sea
The Alboran Sea forms part of the Mediterranean sea and is situated in front of the coast of the south of Spain. Some years ago there was a minor earthquake with noticeable effects inland where I live.
One afternoon I was watching Spanish news at 15.00 and just when the presenter was talking about the earthquake my chair started shaking. Not much and there was no damage, but still, it was a bit frightening.
There is an unusual interacting of sea waters. The surface currents influenced by the winds will bring Atlantic water into the Mediterranean through the Gibraltar Straits. Then there is a deep surface current that moves westward, bringing saltier water to the Atlantic. They call this a gyre, a vertical rotary circulation in the Alboran Sea.
The Strait of Gibraltar image Vlad Man
The change in Seasons
I have been living on my farm in the south of Spain since 1981, and over the years I have observed that seasons have gone missing. Summers can be quite warm and then follow a mild winter.
Springtime is rather short and autumn hardly exists. Where have the seasons gone? One really notices this as certain clothes remain hanging in your wardrobe as there is never this in-between weather where one needs to put it on.
Data on Climate Change
Recently there was the 24th edition of the Week of the Sea in Malaga. Scientists from different entities like the UICN, the Oceanography Centre, Malaga City Hall, Aula del Mar, Maritime Cluster, and also the Junta de Andalucia got together.
During this meeting, one compared the effects which were found in fauna and flora in this part of the Mediterranean. To say the least, scientists are worried by the presented data as over the years many changes can be observed.
The beach in Marbella image holzijue
There is evidence that Climate Change is not something of the future, it is already visible on the Bay of Malaga. You might think the rise of the water temperature is nice for tourists, but actually, it entails long-term problems which outweigh the possible positive.
There will be a reduction of fish stocks and the invasion of not seen before species like jellyfish, which can pose a health risk. Cetaceans might strand on the beach, besides that being sad can also cause a health risk and unfavorable news for holiday regions.
Jorge Baro, the director of the Oceanography Centre, pointed out that temperature changes have been detected in deep levels of the Mediterranean. For some species, it might be nice to have it a little warmer, but not all species like it. The species who do like it warmer are literally emigrating to these waters. They travel from India through the Suez Canal and take up residence here.
Unwelcome Visitors
Not all these species are welcome here, as is the case of the pufferfish, dangerous as it is poisonous. This fish is nothing to joke about even if it has many funny names like balloonfish, bubble fish, toadfish, globefish, sea squab, and a lot more. They have four large teeth and they use these for crushing mollusks and crustaceans.
Most of the pufferfish species are toxic and belong to the most poisonous vertebrates in the world. In Japan and China, these fish are considered a delicacy and especially trained chefs who know which parts are safe to eat will prepare them for their clients. When in danger this fish will fill itself with water and bloat like a balloon.
Their enemies have difficulty getting a hold of them, which is nicely illustrated in the following video. Still, it is understandable that this visitor caused by climate change is not a welcome inhabitant of the Mediterranean Sea.
Funny video of the Puffer Fish.
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The decline of the Red Mullet and the Hake
Even if the Malaga fishing grounds have been stable these past 10 years there is a visible decline when compared to 30 or 40 years ago. The other factor which has to be taken into account is the human overpopulation on the coast.
This causes a lot of other problems like plastic waste and the lack of sewage treatment, difficult to keep up with this explosive growth. Certain species like the red mullet and hake have suffered overfishing by trawling, and some observe that the reproduction cycles of the sardines and anchovies are longer now.
Grilled sardines on the beach image Guillermo Gavilla
Eating fish on the beach
I do not know if you have ever been to the Malaga coast, a meal of freshly caught sardines, salted and roasted over an open fire on the beach is a must. I used to work as a tourist guide on the Costa del Sol. Our office was in Torremolinos and once a week we had a meeting, talking and organizing the transfers of the clients to Malaga airport.
We often had lunch in a small family restaurant on the beach. Maria, the wife, would be working in the kitchen and her husband Pedro would come walking in with the freshly caught fish. On passing our table, he would show us what to expect on the daily menu.
Normally the fish would be prepared and fried in a light batter or on the grill with garlic and a slice of lemon. I arrived on the Costa del Sol in November 1976 and have these details in fond memory.
Nice video on eating sardines on the beach.
The rise in water temperature
When the temperature of the water rises there are more contaminants. This again causes the reduction of CO2 and marine plants are suffering and there is a considerable reduction of marine plants.
They are the food source of many species and it has been observed that more dolphins and other cetaceans have stranded onshore as they come closer looking for food. Recently a big family of pilot whales was seen off the coast of Marbella.
Morocco has also carried out studies to be informed of the consequences of Climate Change. There is a decline in the thickness of the shells of mussels and clams. They have become weaker, and this has reduced production.
Conclusion
Everything is changing and not always for the best. We should wake up to this fact and try even if only on a personal level to do things which if done by many can decrease the rise in temperature, the so-called Climate Change.
Here you have a very serious video which shows us what is happening. It also shows us where we will end up in the future.
I have made a special page for you with a collection of things you might find interesting. Before you leave, have a look at Recommendations.
Source: Wikipedia, Ignacio Lillo for the Sur Newspaper
Photo Source: Pixabay
Unusual changes are happening in the bird world. Perhaps you like to read my other post on Climate Change.
Comments
DThomasWeb
I had never heard of the Alboran Sea before. Certainly it seems like climate change is having a profound effect on marine life there, and clearly this is something that holiday makers are not aware is an issue. It’s great that you are raising awareness about this. I also didn’t know about the emergence of pufferfish in this region, and the decline in sea food species such as hake and mullet.
Taetske
Good afternoon Thomas,
Thank you for visiting my website. As the Mediterranean Sea is so big there are many regions with an extra name.
The Alboran Sea lies kind of infront of the Costa del Sol which is one of the famous holiday areas in Spain. I was also astonished to read that this Pufferfish sneaks in through the Suez canal to come and live here, not a welcome visitor. There are so many things combined which cause Climate Change, most of them man made. If all nations worldwide could finally agree on what measures to take and then also stick to that agreement there still is a change one can advert the most serious aspect of it but there is not much time left.
Regards, Taetske
Chris
Yet another sea region of the ‘Blue Planet’ I was not aware of – the Alboran Sea! Thank you for educating me!
It’s always sad to hear about the decline in certain fish in areas where climate change is not highlighted that often – are there many tourist locations that border the Alboran Sea and if so, what can visitors do to help out with the situation?
Taetske
Good afternoon Chris,
As the Mediterranean sea is big, different areas have a name, like in this case, the Alboran sea. I am including a map so you know where it is.
https://www.google.es/search?q=map+of+alboran+sea&oq=map+of+alboran+sea&aqs=chrome..69i57.6135j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
If there were not these massive amounts of tourists it would be better. On the other side, Spain needs tourists to survive. The best thing would be that humans on a whole would be more conscient of their actions so their environmental impact would be smaller.
Thank you for leaving a comment on my website. I hope you downloaded your free PDF.
Regards, Taetske
Albert
I love Spain and I am becoming a fan of your website too.
Walking along the beach is one of my favorite things to do. It really hearts to see climate change is affecting our environment very fast. Increasing the temperature of water and invasion of jellyfish is just the beginning. If humans don’t change the way they are treating the environment, things going to become even more bad in the coming years. Thanks.
Taetske
Good afternoon Albert,
Nice to see you again. Very nice you are becoming a fan of my website, you are very welcome.
It is sad to see these changes happening all over the world. I think you are right it will become worse a few years from now. I hope we collectively wake up and do something.
Thank you for your comment.
Regards, Taetske
SharonRPh
I really believe this is the first climate change article I’ve ever 1. believed and 2. actually understood. The changes you describe are certainly of concern. I was fascinated with your story of the invading species and it brought to mind the dangers of “red tide” – which kill fish and marine life/toxic to humans as well. Are you concerned that this could occur in your area? Thank you for a very informative and well-written post.
All the best!
Taetske
Good afternoon Sharon,
Thank you for your compliment, it made my day. I try to not overly complicate things in my posts. It is more that I like to attract peoples awareness to certain issues. If then they get interested in the subject they will be able to find many deep going scientific studies.
On the East coast of Florida there is this red tide. As far as I know, the cause of this is not evident yet. Here I have not heard about it.
Thank you for leaving a comment on my website. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
Regards, Taetske
Jaedan
Though it was a tad bit tough to follow, I think I’ve got the gist what you’ve been saying, and have to say I can appreciate the awareness you’re bringing to the subject, especially because the things you’re talking about are effecting you, your environment, and community. Things like invasive species can really have a massive effect on environments and their in-lying ecosystems and not many people understand that. Nice post!
Taetske
Good afternoon Jaedan,
Sorry to hear you had some difficulties following my story. You see English is not my native language so I might make some unusual twists and turns. But, as you said, you got the gist of it.
It is quite alarming what is happening in our world. The story of the changes in the Alboran sea is but a small example.
Thank you for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
Regards, Taetske
Carol5162
True, Climate change is indeed nothing of the future. It is here with us. When its hot, it is extremely hot! Nothing like in the past.
Reduction of fish from water points is also happening, with other indigenous plants disappearing off the planet. We humans are to blame for the disaster we are causing on mother earth. If we all took responsibility on our plastic and industrial waste disposal, plant more trees, we could still be enjoying the moderate temperatures and species of animals that once existed.
Taetske
Good Morning Carol,
Thank you for your comment on my website. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
When you look back a recent history it is so sad to see how we have behaved. We have destroyed so many things that the classification as the most destructive species is justified.I think it still is possible to save Mother Earth which after all is our habitat but there is very little time left.
Governments are often not acting in the interest of its people so as long this continues we will not have a chance. We should choose our leaders with more care.
Regards, Taetske
Glen
Climate change not only impacts the Alboran Sea but many other low-lying areas. We have the Chesapeake Bay in the eastern U.S. impacted by climate change. Not just sea level rise, but warming waters. Over the last 35 years, I have seen the water level rise in the Potomac River, which flows into the Chesapeake Bay. The rising water level is severely impacting Tangier Island in the Bay. Tangier is home to 500 people, who work as fishermen in the Bay. The island is slowing disappearing into the bay because of the rising waters. Furthermore, the U.S. Naval Academy is rebuilding its sea wall to combat coastal flooding.
Taetske
Good Morning Glen,
Your story of the U.S. Naval Academy illustrates the situation very well. Instead of attacking the root cause one tries to patch up the consequences. Soon it will not be enough and or we adapt to our own caused misery or we will die.
When I look around me on my organic farm the world seems to be in order but I know this picture does not reflect the real situation. It is short before 12 and at this rate, we are in for a disaster.
Thank you for stopping by and your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
Regards, Taetske
mohammadahm1
You discuss in your article that Climate Change is already visible in the Alboran Sea. You also provided data on Climate Change, unwelcome visitors, the decline of the Red Mullet and the Hake, etc. I think your article is an informative article. You also share your experience. After reading your article I have learned a lot about these topics.
So, thank you very much for sharing your article.
Taetske
Good Morning Ridwan,
Thank you for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
Climate Change is everywhere and it is mainly our fault. We do not take care of the environment and live carelessly as if there is no tomorrow. Future generations will blame us for the senseless destruction of Mother Earth.
Regards, Taetske
Ronan
I completely agree with you, Climate change is something I’m actually quite passionate about myself and it’s frightening to think of the world we may live in or what we may leave for the next generation.
It shows that you have definitely done your research here and from the information you have provided on the Alboran Sea, climate change is already here. We really need to come together as collective and try and reduce the implications of climate change. After all, it is our one and only home.
Taetske
Good Morning Ronan,
Thank you for leaving a comment on my website. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
To think we have to move to Mars or the moon as we are not able to take care of our environment which is our habitat is quite sad and ridiculous. To me, all the problems Mother Earth suffers is caused by human greed, not a pretty picture.
Regards, Taetske
Dave M.
Very interesting information on the effects of climate change in the Mediterranean Sea area. Your mention of the lack of seasons is interesting as I have been talking about the same thing here in the Northeast United States for a few years now. I have noticed that the hot days on summer are quickly changing to the cold temperatures of winter without much of the more moderate temperatures of Autumn.
Taetske
Good Morning Dave,
Thank you for your visit and leaving a comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
Yes, I know, it is a worldwide problem which is only getting worse. If only all people would realize this and do a little bit on a personal level our world would not be in this mess it is in.
Regards, Taetske
DorcasW
Hi; Climate Change is one global issue that is causing many people fear and discomfort, as you have mentioned the seasons that you were accustomed to how they have changed. The kind of change is evident all over the world.
In the tropics, where there was always some colder months but not really “winter” Those Cool months luxury is something of the past. All year round seems to be Summer.
The bearing of fruits and the shedding of leaves are no more seasonal. Climate Change has taken over. Yes, there is a massive migration of fish in the Caribbean sea.
The one that scares me most is the “Lion Fish” I no longer go to the beach alone. Someone got to be around me to watch out for the Lionfish. While I swim.
My question though, is, what we can do to prevent Climate Change?
The Government has put a band on the use of some plastic bags and foams as they are ending up into the sea. However, is every country placing restrictions on the use of plastic and foams?
DorcasW
Taetske
Good Morning Dorcas,
To be able to prevent climate change one has to understand it is a huge multifaceted issue. Not only the overload of plastic is a problem. We are cutting trees which actually are our alleys as they produce oxygen. Then we keep too many animals for food. By the melting of the ice, methane is set free. Then let us not forget radiation to be topped off by 5G. Sadly the list goes on. If all countries would immediately convert to green energy that would really help but not all countries want to do that. They think about making money now and the future generations will have to go to Mars.
Thank you for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
Regards, Taetske
Pronay Pappu
Hi,
Nice article you write about climate change. Climate change occurs when changes in Earth’s climate system result in new weather patterns that last for at least a few decades, and maybe for millions of years. The climate system is comprised of five interacting parts, the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere. It’s destroying our planet and weather day by day. So, we have to take a good decision to save our planet from climate change.
Taetske
Good Morning Pronay,
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF?
It is true that climate has changed throughout earth history but now human actions are accelerating this change at an alarming speed. I live here in the south of Spain and in a relatively short time, nearly 40 years, the “normal” weather has noticeably changed and not for the better. It will not take much longer and this country will become a desert as the temperatures are expected to rise 4C.
Regards, Taetske
Danie Bello
I had never heard of the Alboran Sea before. Certainly it seems like climate change has a way of affecting marine life, and clearly this is something that holiday makers are not aware is an issue. It’s great that you are raising awareness about this. I also didn’t know about the emergence of pufferfish in this region, and the decline in sea food species such as hake and mullet.
This is simply amazing and it’s good to know that something like this is taken place. The best way for one to live should not be in ignorance, but in full knowledge of how things happen around the environment.
Taetske
Good Morning Danie,
Thank you for your comment on my website. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.
The Mediterranean Sea has many names. The Spanish coast/sea areas also have many names. I live in the south on the Costa del Sol and the sea there is the Alboran Sea. Having lived here all these years, the big change in climate is obvious. It is hotter and we get less rain. To have a new inhabitant like the puffer fish in these waters is not a good thing. A very dangerous fish, even if it looks funny.
Regards, Taetske
Martinz
Hello, this is a really good article and I’m happy to have read it down to the end. Natural disasters are just some “gifts” of mother nature that we can’t seem to get over. We would have to create an awareness so at to enlighten the masses on the increase in Sea levels. Thanks for this.
Taetske
Good Morning Martin,
Glad to hear you found my article of interest. Our world is constantly changing and a lot of changes are not good. Often we meddle with Mother Nature and are not aware of the short term but especially long-term consequences.
The sea level is rising and in the not far away future many people will lose their home.
Thank you for stopping by and for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.
Regards, Taetske
Sylvia
Hi Taetske, You are so right! Thank you very much for this informative post. I, myself, try to show people the changes in our environment. The climate has changed very much. Our bees and bumblebees, butterflies, are reduced so much, I could cry. People are afraid of them, thinking that they are wasp and killing them. We need these animals.
I am living in the Netherlands, and we can hardly call the summer by its name. This summer we had 2 weeks’ perfect weather. We had mostly lower temperatures and rain. That is not a good development! I am pleased to see that you fight for the Earth! Keep on doing this! I will do it as well!
Blessings, Sylvia
Taetske
Good afternoon Sylvia,
I am also Dutch and spend my youth in the Netherlands till I was 15 years old. I was born in Australia, but my parents were Dutch. We moved back to Europe when I was 3 years old.
Thank you for stopping by and for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.
You might like to take a look at the green widget Save the Planet. Perhaps bUnited resonates with you.
One should not kill wasps as they also work as pollinators and are natural pest control workers. One should never kill animals, but when the ants climb on my breakfast table in the summer my patience has reached its limit.
Regards, Taetske
Anastazja
I spent almost 25 years living in the subarctic or the James and Hudson Bay. What I saw confirms your article, which should be a warning to all people. As ice flows shrank because weather patterns changed, polar bear migration and waterfowl nesting changed. Will these animals be able to adapt? Forest fires in very remote areas are on the rise because of drier summers. Even fish stocks in these two bays are changing as fish move to be in colder water. Your article is timely and very important.
Taetske
Good afternoon Anastazja,
That sounds cold up there. I cannot imagine living in a cold climate as most of my life has been spent in warmer climates. It is predicted that by 2050 nobody lives in Spain anymore as it will have turned into a desert. The south of Europe will have to emigrate to the North. It is too sad that we are big contributors so these changes can happen so rapidly.
Perhaps you like to have a look at Save the Planet, the green widget in the sidebar. bUnited might resonate with you.
Thank you for your visit and for your comment. I hope you downloaded your free PDF? Tulip widget.
Regards, Taetske