This app provides recent measurements of harmful algal blooms, or red tide, in Florida's coastal areas. The app sources its data from the NOAA National Coastal Data Development Center, which derives measurements from individual pitch samples. No registration or login is required, and users can tap "update" for the most up-to-date data. The app only covers Florida.
Red tide is caused by a higher-than-normal concentration of microscopic alga, with the most common species in Florida and the Gulf of Mexico being Karenia brevis. The water can appear discolored, but not always red. Red tides are not a new phenomenon and can last anywhere from a few weeks to over a year, depending on conditions such as sunlight, nutrients, and salinity. Red tide is found in bays and estuaries, but not in freshwater systems.
Several red tides produce toxic chemicals that can affect both marine organisms and humans. Karenia brevis produces brevetoxins that can cause respiratory irritation and, in severe cases, serious illness for people with chronic respiratory conditions. The toxins can also accumulate in molluscan filter-feeders such as oysters and clams, leading to Neurotoxic Shellfish Poisoning.
Florida harmful algal bloom measurementsThis app shows a map with recent red tide (harmful algal bloom) measurements for Florida coastal areas.No registration or login required.Data source: NOAA National Coastal Data Development CenterMeasurements are derived from field samples that are individually collected. Tap "update" in the app to get the most recent data available from NOAA.The current version of this app covers the state of Florida only.RED TIDE BACKGROUND INFORMATIONSource: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission websiteWhat is a red tide?
A red tide, or harmful algal bloom, is a higher-than-normal concentration of a microsc.....
Swimming during a red tide is usually safe, but people may experience skin irritation, burning eyes, or respiratory irritation if they have chronic respiratory conditions. Common sense should be used, and people should avoid areas with a red tide bloom if they are particularly susceptible to irritation from plant products. Swimming among dead fish is not recommended because they can be associated with harmful bacteria.
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