Invasive seaweed spreads along New England coast - Fox 2 News Headlines

Invasive seaweed spreads along New England coast

Posted: Updated:

By CLARKE CANFIELD

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) - A fast-growing, fast-spreading Asian seaweed that's crowded out native species, fouled beaches and made a mess of lobster traps in Massachusetts has spread north to Maine and south to New York.

First discovered in the U.S. on a Rhode Island beach three years ago, the seaweed doesn't pose a public health threat but can create a stinky muddle as it did earlier this year when it washed onto beaches in Massachusetts. The plant gives off a putrid odor when it dries and decays.

The red seaweed has been sighted in Connecticut and New Hampshire, and also was seen this summer in Cape Elizabeth along the Maine shore.

Northeastern University biologist Matt Bracken says he wouldn't be surprised if the plant has already made its way to Canada.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

  • Connecticut NewsConnecticut News

  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 6:50 PM EDT2013-05-22 22:50:52 GMT
    The Newtown Board of Education has unanimously hired a principal from neighboring Bethel to lead the Sandy Hook Elementary School.
    The Newtown Board of Education has unanimously hired a principal from neighboring Bethel to lead the Sandy Hook Elementary School.
  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 8:10 AM EDT2013-05-22 12:10:21 GMT
    Commuter rail service from Connecticut to New York City, along with Amtrak service between Boston and New York, was back on schedule Wednesday morning on one of the nation's oldest and most heavily traveled railways.
    Commuter rail service from Connecticut to New York City, along with Amtrak service between Boston and New York, was back on schedule Wednesday morning on one of the nation's oldest and most heavily traveled railways.
  • Tuesday, May 21 2013 1:24 PM EDT2013-05-21 17:24:15 GMT
    An official says toxicology tests on the Newtown school shooter's body did not turn up any alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription medication.
    An official says toxicology tests on the Newtown school shooter's body did not turn up any alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription medication.
Powered by WorldNow

WJBK-TV | Fox 2
16550 West Nine Mile Rd.
Southfield, MI 48075

Main Station: (248) 557-2000
Newsroom: (248) 552-5103

Didn't find what you were looking for?
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 Fox Television Stations, Inc. and Worldnow. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Ad Choices