Mercury levels in local seafood are spiking—scientists have found that shrimp, oysters, and snails near North Carolina’s beaches now contain up to three times more mercury than usual. The culprit? An invasive algae, Gracilaria vermiculophylla, is spreading fast, choking out native plants and creating low-oxygen zones where toxic mercury compounds thrive. This means our favorite local catches could pose a real health risk if the trend continues. Boat owners are being urged to help stop the spread by cleaning their vessels thoroughly. How concerned are you about mercury in your seafood? #Health #BodyHealth #NorthCarolina