Gov. Rick Scott of Florida declared a state of emergency Aug. 15 after harmful red algae killed various sea organisms in the region’s waters. For months, red tide spread throughout coastal waters killing turtles while also sickening people. Here is what you need to know.
What causes a red tide?
The harmful algal bloom is caused by microscopic algae that produce toxins. The algae usually live in undetectable small amounts within the Gulf of Mexico year round.. Red tides occur when dinoflagellates explode and millions of microscopic algae reproduce and cluster in one specific area in the water. When this happens, the algae can sometimes change the color of the water, though it isn’t always red. Sometimes, the color ranges from red-orange to yellow.
How does the red tide affect sea life?
Red tide is extremely toxic for marine animals and deadly The photos you may have seen circulating of hundreds of dead fish invading coves and beaches are not extreme; they’re the reality. Scientists found 16 dead dolphins. It affected hundreds of sea turtles some died while others are being rehabilitated. The natural phenomenon is likely what caused the death of a whale shark which later washed ashore in Sanibel. The ever controversial Sea World transformed into a homeless shelter for sea cows that would otherwise fall ill in the contaminated waves. The algae release brevetoxin, which contaminates water and food sources for animals. Ingesting the chemical toxin causes animals to suffocate.
How is red tide dangerous for humans?
The toxic algae do affect humans, though not as deadly as seen in marine life. The red tide may directly or indirectly cause illnesses in people. For example, the algae toxins can make shellfish dangerous to eat. However, most notably when the toxins are released into the air, it can be difficult to breathe. Most people will only experience mild to moderate issues, while those with breathing conditions such as asthma may experience slightly more severe complications.
What impact does it have on our lives?
Other than beaches and canals needing to be cleared of dead fish, there is a larger economic impact of red tide. One county is being reimbursed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for clean-up expenses which has received over $750,000 so far.
It also impacts the livelihood of fishers. Many small businesses make their living from the waterways affected by the red tide bloom. It is dangerous to sell fish caught in infected waters. It has been difficult to find clean water and many fish have died.
So is the red tide caused by climate change?
Researchers and studies are mixed.
Perhaps.
Maybe the increase in algae is due to the warming of ocean but scientists don’t know what exactly is causing the excessive bloom. However, if it is due to climate change, then one thing is for sure: no longer would climate change be something people talk about that you can’t necessarily observe. The amount of animal carcass washing up on shore show just how serious and dangerous the effects of climate change could be.
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