Tonnes of invasive species of algae cleared from Gibraltar's beaches

If you've been to the beach recently, you've likely encountered an unwelcome sight - and smell.

Heaps of an invasive species of algae have been washing up on the coast and threatening biodiversity here and in Spain.

The Nautilus Project has cleared up over two tonnes just this week, but warns that the algae will be here to stay if it has the right habitat to grow in.

The invasive algae Rugulopteryx Okamurae is native to Asia, but has become established in the Strait and the southern coast of Iberia. 

It's been a problem in Gibraltar already in recent years - and this summer, it's increasingly affecting the East as well as the West side of the Rock.

In response to GBC questions, the Government says the suggestion that any works are to blame for the increase in the algae is "indefensible". 

It says there is a great deal of suitable habitat in the western Mediterranean already, and that the current shoreline already has rocks that could attract the algae.

The Government says its contractors have collected around 6-7 tonnes already this week, from Western Beach and especially Sandy Bay.

It adds it will continue to do so as often as needed, despite the cost, and welcomes the help of the Nautilus Project - whose Youth Monitors and volunteers have also been working to clear the shores.

Even as the heaps on the shore are laboriously removed, the fast-growing algae can build up again - with a negative effect not just on the beaches we enjoy, but the whole marine environment beyond them.