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Top 10 facts about Red Tide

Top 10 facts about Red Tide

  1. In Florida, Red Tide is caused by naturally occurring microalgae (plant-like microorganisms), called Karenia brevis or K. brevis.
  2. The organism produces a toxin with effects on the central nervous system of fish, birds, mammals and other animals.
  3. In stronger concentrations (called algal blooms), the organism can turn the water red, light or dark green, or brown.
  4. Red tide and other harmful algal blooms occur throughout the world. K. brevis is mostly found exclusively in the Gulf of Mexico, but has also been observed on the east coast of Florida and off the coast of North Carolina.
  5. Red tide algal blooms can occur for several days, weeks, or months and continue to move daily due to wind and Water currents on a daily basis. Onshore winds usually bring them close to shore and offshore Winds out to sea.
  6. Red Tide was first observed in Florida in 1844.
  7. A Red Tide algal bloom requires biological factors (the organisms) as well as chemical (natural or artificial nutrients for growth) and physical factors (concentration and transport mechanisms). It is not caused by any one factor alone. Tests are currently being undertaken to determine if coastal nutrients can Increase algal blooms or prolong their life.
  8. Red Tide can cause skin or respiratory irritation in some people. (On the back page, you can learn more about its effects on health).
  9. Fish and seafood offered in restaurants and hotels are controlled and are safe to eat.
    consumed without concern. (See back page.)
  10. The Mote Marine Laboratory publishes information twice daily on beach conditions, including Red Tide. Visit www.mote.org/beaches.

If you have a question or a health concern related to Red Tide, please contact
the Florida Poison Control Information Center at:

+1-800-222-1222

Gesundheitsinfo: www.floridahealth.gov
Fischsterben melden: 1-800-636-0511 [FWC]
Red Tide Info & Statusberichte: www.myfwc.com/redtide
Red Tide Fakten: www.start1.org
Aktuelle Strandbedingungen: www.mote.org/beaches
oder unter der Nummer 941-BEACHES (232-2437)

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