Mucilage, which severely impacted the Sea of Marmara in 2021, has resurfaced, posing environmental and economic challenges. The dense layer, reducing oxygen levels and threatening marine life, clogs fishermen’s nets along the Tekirdağ coast, making daily operations nearly impossible.

Hüseyin Oğuz, Vice President of Süleymanpaşa Fisheries Cooperative, noted the difficulties, saying, “When we throw our nets, we pull them muddy. This situation is hindering our work.” Fisherman Anıl Can Pehlivanoğlu added, “Our nets are heavier, making fishing challenging.”

Experts, including Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sarı of Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University, warn that the rapidly spreading mucilage has covered the entire Sea of Marmara within weeks. Despite preventive measures, significant progress in addressing the issue remains elusive.