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Short abstract:

In the Caribbean, managing Sargassum algae hinges on its perception as marine biodiversity or a disruptive nuisance. We explore the sociomaterial assemblages, ontological struggles and transformations undergone by the algae, shedding light on contested narratives surrounding its value and utility.

Long abstract:

When people think of algae, images of pond scum, dirt, or slime usually come to mind. However, without algae, life on Earth would cease to exist. Algae play a crucial role in maintaining the freshness and cleanliness of bodies of water, as they absorb pollutants in the ocean and store carbon dioxide. Despite often being perceived as a “dirty” aquatic species, algae are yet key companions in the Anthropocene era. In the Caribbean, where Sargassum has begun washing up on shore in massive quantities in 2011, algae is often placed on the dirty–clean continuum, generating ontological struggles, as the algae alternates between being perceived as a natural component of marine biodiversity and a troublesome nuisance causing economic and environmental disruptions. The positioning of Sargassum along this spectrum significantly shapes practices of its management. We discuss the multifaceted material politics surrounding the management of Sargassum along the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Drawing on ethnographic research, we explore how various actors navigate the complexities of handling and disposing of Sargassum, shedding light on the intricate sociomaterial assemblages involved in its management. Furthermore, we scrutinize the material transformations undergone by Sargassum, from collection and processing to potential repurposing as fertilizer or biomass, elucidating the contested narratives surrounding its value and utility.