Red Tide Causing Problems For Marine Life, Humans

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Delaware - In late August and early September, the appearance of two species of toxic algae was found along the coastline of Delaware and in the Indian Bay. Two types of algae, Karenia brevis and Karenia papilionacea, were found while testing White Creek for another harmful algae. Although the persistance of the algae didn't last long after it was first found, there still was the concern that shell fish might have been poisoned.

During the Winter of 1987 and 1988, the red tide had only been as far North as North Carolina.

"During this persistent bloom, 48 cases of neurotoxic shellfish poisoning were documented and the economic losses due to closure of shellfish beds exceeded $24 million," said University of Delaware's Ed Whereat, who heads up a monitoring program for local waters

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Whereat went on to say that from the testing that's been done on the water and shell fish, there were no signs of toxicity.

Many people first find out about red tide blooms because they get sick. Toxins from an algae bloom can become airborne and cause respiratory problems, irritation of the throat, burning eyes, as well as a non-productive hacking cough. Florida commonly sees a lot of these symptoms when the red tide starts making landfall. Other signs include fish kills where dead fish are found along the shores. Birds and other wildlife can also be effected by the algae bloom resulting in death.

"Those who ingest shellfish tainted by Karenia brevis toxins often suffer vertigo, headache, muscle pain and gastrointestinal problems within just a few hours of eating.

Whereat said poisoning related to Karenia brevis often goes under-diagnosed, especially in mild cases, as people sometimes attribute symptoms to being a stomach virus."

I've seen pictures of the red tide before, but until reading through several new articles in the past week, never really knew that it can be so toxic.