One of the best known harmful algae blooms in the U.S. Human illnesses caused by harmful algal blooms, though rare, can be debilitating or even fatal, according to NOAA. Harmful algal blooms occur when colonies of algae grow out of control while producing toxic or harmful effects on people, fish, shellfish, marine mammals and birds. The microscopic algae can multiply rapidly under the right conditions, especially when supplied by excess nutrients. At high concentrations, red tide can - but not always - give water a red or brown hue. It's common in Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, according to FWC. Red tide is caused by a higher-than-normal concentration of the algae Karenia brevis. Story continues Red tide: What exactly is it? The red tide toxins can accumulate in filter-feeders such as oysters, mussels and clams, which can lead to neurotoxic shellfish poisoning in people who consume contaminated shellfish, according to the Florida Department of Health. Respiratory irritation (coughing, sneezing)īrevetoxins also can affect the central nervous system of fish and other vertebrates, causing them to die. For people with severe or chronic respiratory conditions, such as emphysema or asthma, the toxins can cause serious illness.Īccording to the Centers for Disease Control, breathing in sea spray or getting into water containing brevetoxins can cause such symptoms as: Where is Karenia brevis now? Is red tide harmful to humans? A high level is hit when cells per liter are more than 1 million.Īs of March 1, nine sites between between North Naples and Venice had high levels of Karenia brevis. Is red tide on Florida's east coast? Scientists not concerned about red tide detected near West Palm Beach - yetįish kills and breathing problems can start when levels reach 10,000 cells per liter, at which point the FWC issues a low designation for the site where the sample was taken.Ī medium designation is issued when cells per liter range from 100,000 to 1 million. Dead eels: The slithery creatures are washing up on Fort Myers, Naples beaches.
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