Red tides are returning as a threat to the survival of thousands of species living in the ocean and near-ocean zones, researchers say. Florida’s beaches face this phenomenon, which threatens even humans. As the red tide recedes, the fish die in droves and wash ashore. Florida’s coastlines have been witnessing this phenomenon repeatedly for the past few years.
The reason behind red tides is the abnormal increase in sea levels. The name red tide is derived from the fact that due to their presence, the sea water appears reddish-brown in color. Red tides are caused by many microorganisms, including single-celled algae and dinoflagellates. Algae Karenia bravis are the main culprits behind red tides in Florida. These produce a toxin called brevitoxin.
If ingested, humans, birds, marine mammals, and fish are highly likely to have serious stomach and nervous diseases. Those who eat shellfish infected with dinoflagellate algae can develop paralytic shellfish poisoning. Humans can experience symptoms ranging from swelling of the face and fingertips, headaches, dizziness, and even paralysis depending on the amount of algae ingested. The Massachusetts Bureau of Environmental Health reports that although rare, there have been cases of death due to lung problems.
But they don’t have to be in food to get brevitoxin. If the poison gets mixed with the air and enters through the respiratory tract, it can cause problems such as coughing and shortness of breath. So even walking along the coastal area during red tide is dangerous. Thousands of dead creatures washed ashore are also a threat to health.
Although red tide poses a threat, it is a natural phenomenon in nature. But the question is also raised whether these occur frequently and largely due to human interference in nature. It is estimated that chemicals and wastes from farms and factories reaching the ocean may also be the reason for this.
English Summary: “Red Tide” Of Toxic Organisms Storms Florida