The Beauty and Power of the Ocean: Red Tide

Tara A. Spears

“First the tide rushes in/Plants a kiss on the shore…” Ebb Tide

There’s something so beautiful and magical about being next to the ocean. The sandy beaches of Mexico’s Pacific Coast attract people from all over the world to enjoy the soothing whoosh of the waves, wiggling your toes in the warm sand, and letting go of the day-to-day stress of home. If you are a beach enthusiast or ocean lover, you’ve heard about red tide.

While it may sound mysterious or even ominous, red tides are a fascinating natural phenomenon that can have both beautiful and serious impacts on marine environments. The purpose of this article is to educate those that love Jaltemba Bay about the challenges of red tide. The biggest message is to avoid going in the water or consuming local shell fish when red tide is present. As of Saturday, 29 March, all of the Jaltemba Bay beaches are open for swimming as the red tide has moved on.

Doctor Lorena M. Durán-Riveroll, UAN Microbiology Department explains what constitutes Red tides. This phenomenon, also known as harmful algal blooms (HABs), occur when certain species of algae grow rapidly and accumulate in coastal waters. Despite their name, red tides don’t always appear red. They can range in color from brown to green to even purple, depending on the type of algae present. The “red” in red tide comes from the reddish pigments produced by some algal species, which can tint the water when present in high concentrations. 

During a HAB, the abundance of these microorganisms becomes so high that sometimes a change in the color of the water surface can be observed, which can be reddish, orange, green or bioluminescent, producing a beautiful nocturnal spectacle. (Lead photo) I have lived here more than 20 years and this is only the second occurrence of red tide I’ve witnessed. The first was in 2023. The most common harbinger of red tide approaching is the landing of dead sea animals on the beach. In the weeks before the actual red tide was visible, in JB, there were dead fish, sea turtle, and eels coming ashore.

In recent decades, there has been an increase in the frequency, duration, distribution, and intensity of HABs worldwide. This has also increased the human poisonings caused by the consumption of fish or shellfish, which, in turn, have consumed these microorganisms. Hypotheses for this increase point to global climate change, the impacts of human activities on coastlines due to the production of goods and services, and the exploitation of coastal resources.

While most people are aware of the factors that create ideal conditions that cause algae bloom, many people are not aware of the human health hazards.  Oceanographer and diver, Gabriela Carranza Castillo, explains: “Exposure to red tide toxins can affect humans in several ways: Inhalation: Breathing in toxin-laden air can cause respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation. Skin Contact: Direct contact with contaminated water may cause irritation or rashes.”

“Another danger is ingestion: Eating shellfish contaminated by red tide toxins can lead to foodborne illnesses and gastrointestinal issues. It may also affect blood pressure or cause dizziness. Symptoms typically appear 30 minutes to 3 hours after consumption.” While these symptoms may appear quickly, they typically subside with reduced exposure. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.

Some groups are at higher risk of experiencing more severe symptoms from red tide exposure. Due to their developing respiratory systems, children are especially susceptible to inhaling toxins from red tide. Older adults, whose immune systems may be weaker, might have a more challenging time managing the effects of the toxins. Additionally, individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, may see their symptoms worsen as the toxins irritate their airways and aggravate existing health issues.

Taking simple steps can help reduce your risk of exposure to red tide. Staying informed and following safety measures is important for protecting yourself and your family.

Many people are fascinated by the ocean, enjoying a dip and feel like they are touching eternity. The mesmerizing roll of waves seems to go on forever until it returns to shore… let the ocean stir your heart, inspire your imagination and bring peace to your soul. But, remember to respect the power of the ocean and stay out of the water if you see any beach flag color but green.

Nursery Rancho Las Palmas is Ground Zero for Gardeners

Tara A. Spears

 Bet you can’t buy just one! Whether digging in the dirt is your passion or just a means of making your space pretty, Rancho Las Palmas Vivero in north Penita is the starting point. The large nursery carries every size container, potting soil, fertilizer, 40 types of palm trees, perennials, shrubs, and annual bedding flowers. The nursery is open continuously from 8 am to 5 pm M-F; 8-1 pm on Saturday with cash only purchases.

For the brothers, Benjamin and Mario Arriola Trujillo, who grew up in La Penita, maintaining healthy plants and a large variety of plants suitable for the local climate is not a job, it’s their calling. They also deliver and install (plant) items for you!

Unsure what you want? Bengy, 322 192 8887, has more than 25 years of experience in propagating and planting. His eye for aesthetics, coupled with his firsthand knowledge of the area’s soil and growing conditions, will design a beautiful tropical yard for you. 

For many people, gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s a therapeutic and fulfilling activity that provides numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Engaging with nature through planting, nurturing, and harvesting plants offers a way to slow down, connect with the earth, and reap rewards that go beyond fresh produce or beautiful flowers. Research has proven that gardening enhances physical health, reduces stress, improves mood, and fosters a sense of purpose.

Not only does gardening benefit the person who is actually getting their hands in the mud but it benefits the earth. As Kijarro said, “Plants are solar-powered air purifiers whose filter never needs replacing.” There is something so soothing about the sound of a breeze rustling the palm fronds or tree leaves.

The intense sunlight of this latitude needs plants to absorb some of the heat and glare. Lastly, plants and shrubs add beauty while softening the hardscape.  Because there is almost unlimited natural variety of colors for flowers and trees, it makes it easy to satisfy your craving for a favorite color.

Bengy and Mario at Rancho Las Palmas are my go-to plant doctors. When weird things happen to a plant, I bring it, or at least a cutting, besides a close-up photo of the problem.  Most of the time it’s an easy fix, such as, change the watering schedule or the plant needs fertilizer. 

If you are at a loss of words in Spanish, Mario has a book of plants in order for you to point to a picture so he understands what you want. One needs to be aware that not all plants that we love NOTB have a tropical version… and even many species that thrive in Tepic will tolerate the hot nights and salt air to live here in Jaltemba Bay.

 Kara

Both brothers are devoted family men. When not working, Mario likes to cruise on his spiffy motorcycle and go to the beach with his wife, Karla, and daughters Mariana 11, Melanie 8.  Bengy enjoys going to the mountain river with his two kids to relax.

As stewards of living things, both men said that the biggest challenge is to keep the plants alive and healthy.  “I love seeing the plants grow. The fun is getting new ones (cloning) from a mature plant.” said Marco. “I enjoy working outside and meeting new people. It makes me happy to have repeat customers that had success growing our stock. I can’t imagine working anywhere else. When asked how he learned to speak English, he explained he “picked it up talking to the gringos.”  

Whether you need one small pot and plant for a window sill or to landscape a new build yard, Las Palmas Vivero is sure to have what you need.

Mexican Avocados: Best of the Best Right Now

Tara A. Spears

Avocados are full of delicious mysteries. They’re a fruit that eats like a vegetable, ripens on their own stubborn schedule, and tastes like buttery happiness. Avocados are one of nature’s miracle foods and it’s readily available throughout Mexico. Today, avocado is grown in places with tropical and Mediterranean climates with Mexico being the number one producer. With 17 main avocado types, one avocado may not be better than another; each is simply different. The diversity in shape, size, taste and texture in avocado varieties also has varying harvest times.

For those avocado lovers that live NOTB where the fruit is grown far away from the toast or taco they end up on, have you wondered when are avocados really in season?

If you feel like the avocado season never ends, you’re right, thanks in large part to the hard work of Mexican avocado growers. In Mexico, the season essentially lasts all year long, since their trees bloom and produce fruit four times per year. The state of Michoacán, with its fertile volcanic soil, is the avocado capital of Mexico, harvesting for the majority of the year, starting in the early spring. Right when Michoacán winds down its harvest in the fall, farmers in Jalisco pick up the slack and harvest until early March. It’s like a delicious relay race between trees and regions, producing a glut of avocados (not accidentally) just in time for the Super Bowl party dips.

Mexico isn’t the only country that’s capitalized on the popularity of avocados in the U.S. Today, Peru grows avocados from April to September and right when they wind down, Colombia and Chile enjoy their season from September to June. What this means for     Canadian/U.S. avocado enthusiasts is that thanks to a network of growers throughout the Americas, you can eat avocados year-round. That said, depending on the time of year, it may have traveled hundreds or even thousands of miles to get to your plate. If you’re looking to reduce food miles and eat more local avocados, you’ll have to wait until the California season starts.

In California, where about 90% of US avocados are grown, the trees bloom only once, but can produce two crops in a year. This means that Californian avocados only become plentiful in the late spring and early summer.

Numerous studies have shown that avocados have potent health benefits thanks to its incredible nutrient content. Avocado is a suitable food for daily eating. In fact, studies have shown that, apart from being a satiating and nutritious food, it helps reduce levels of bad cholesterol or LDL and helps lose weight in a healthy way when included in a balanced diet. This powerhouse fruit provides monounsaturated fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acids, potassium and vitamins C, E, K and B6.

There are so many benefits from eating avocado that it can be ranked as a super food: eating avocado helps regulate blood sugar, promotes eye health, aides the cardiovascular system and boosts the immune system. In addition, avocado is useful for weight loss because it contains fiber. Researchers from the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico have discovered that avocado oil is good for reducing the amount of saturated fat in the diet.                               

Take advantage of the constant supply of fresh avocados to enjoy this fruit daily. This incredibly versatile food can be included in almost every meal or salad, any time of day. January- March is the best time to savor this fruit at its peak.

Dancing in the Street: Magnificent Andalusian Horses

Tara A. Spears

A highlight of the Penita Carnival celebration was the appearance each day of the magnificent dancing horses. Yes, the riders in their traditional Mexican outfits topped by wide brimmed hats were handsome and romantic, but it was the strength and beauty of the animal that mesmerized the spectators. Since the first introduction of Spanish horses in the 15th century, Mexicans became expert horsemen and ranchers. Since then, Mexican culture has been indelibly intertwined with the horse. The horse and cowboy (vaquero) are still revered as a symbol of Mexican pride in overcoming invaders and revolutions while retaining national dignity.  Today, the Andalusian horse’s presence adds a touch of grace and enchantment to the event.

The Spanish warhorse that evolved was sturdy, with a long sloping shoulder, short back, rounded, strong hind quarters, wide chest, with a well-crested, naturally arched neck and very sturdy legs. The Andalusian horse, which in ancient times carried the royalty of Europe, fought the fierce Iberian bulls, and carried Crusaders and Conquistadors, is now revered as a personal ride rather than being a workhorse. It is status to own a purebred Andalusian, especially one that is trained to dance.

These original Spanish horses provided the foundation stock for all American breeds of horses. The American Mustang, the Pasos of Central and South America and the Mexican Criollos are the very obvious descendants, but Morgans, Foxtrotters, Walking Horses, Saddlebreds and the famous Quarter Horse, can all trace their heritage back to the Andalusian. It is not surprising that in the 20th century when establishing the Mexican National horse, the Azteca breed, the process began with Andalusian stallions. The three foundation breeds of the Azteca are the Spanish (Andalusian), Quarter Horse, and Mexican Criollo (almost extinct). These three breeds were chosen to produce a breed that combined athletic ability with a good temperament and certain physical skills. The Mexican Department of Agriculture granted official registry to the Azteca breed on November 4, 1982. The Azteca is the national horse breed of the country.

Andalusians are high-spirited in their movement, but docile in nature. In color they are mostly grey but black and bay are also common. Buckskin and chestnut are rare. Because of its versatility, intelligence, agility, beauty and willing nature, Andalusians are making its way into all disciplines of the modern equine world. The   Andalusian horse is extremely hardy and tough with strong limbs and feet. The agility and stamina of the breed make it ideally suited for the Mexican ranches where it is used as a saddle horse.

Several local horsemen in the Riviera Nayarit area proudly ride Andalusians and dance their way through parades-absolutely beautiful to watch.

The premier Mexican breeding farm of Andalusian horses, Rancho San Antonio in Texcoco just outside Mexico City, stands a number of outstanding pure-bred Andalusian stallions obtained in cooperation with the house of Domec. Its stud services and horses are sought after by serious Andalusian fans worldwide. The Azteca horse is excellent for sports and athletics; general riding or ranch work. Its life expectancy is 30-40 years and usually weighs between 450 to 540 kg (990 to 1,200 pounds.)

Even if you are not a horse aficionado, one can’t help but to be impressed with the history and tradition that the Mexican work horse-the Andalusian-as a symbol of Mexican culture.