Algal bloom
Algal bloom
Algal bloom
What is algal bloom?
Algal bloom refers to the accumulation of algae or the rapid increase in the algae population in an aquatic system. They are usually green but there are others which are yellow-brown or red. The coloring usually depends on the algae species. They can be found in both marine and fresh waters and they cause discoloration of the water. This is one way that they can be recognized. Algal bloom usually occurs due to high concentration of nutrients in the water and especially phosphorus. Generally most algae species are not harmful but Karenia brevis which is a quick grower and makes the water appear red is a harmful bloom. It is also called the red tide because of turning the water red
What is a harmful algal bloom?
A harmful algal bloom (HAB) is one that has negative effects on other living organisms through toxins production or by causing mechanical damage to other living organisms. The toxins that they produce are called brevetoxions and are known to have killed millions of marine fish and other marine organisms.
What causes HAB?
The specific causes of harmful algal bloom is unclear because they occur entirely naturally in some areas while in some locations, they seem to occur because of human activities. In other areas they seem to occur due to movement of ocean currents. Though the growth of HABs depends on the amount of nutrients in the water, different HABs have different environmental requirements for growth.
What are some of these harmful effects on the marine environment?
Their effect on the marine environment depends on the species involved. They produce brevetoxions which are neurotoxins that kill fish. The dead fish may be a source of other harmful Bacteria and this makes the marine environment to be contaminated.
What are the impacts on the public health?
The neurotoxins produced may accumulate in the tissues of the fish especially shell fish that feed on these harmful algae blooms. When people feed on these fish, they suffer from neurotoxin shell poisoning. This causes severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms that may include tingling fingers or toes.
What is the effect of red tide on the respiratory system?
People experience respiratory irritation of the eyes, nose and throat hence causing coughing, sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath and tearing when the red tide organism (K. brevis) is present along a coast and winds blow its toxic aerosol onshore. People with severe or chronic respiratory conditions like emphysema or asthma should avoid red tide areas. This is because they may experience these symptoms more severely. Generally, symptoms are temporary. Once exposure is discontinued, symptoms usually disappear within hours
Is it safe to swim during a red tide?
Yes, swimming is safe for most people. However, red tide can cause some people to suffer from skin irritation and burning eyes. Use common sense. If you are particularly susceptible to irritation from plant products, avoid red tide water. If you experience irritation, get out of the water and thoroughly wash. Do not swim among dead fish because they can be associated with harmful bacteria.
Is it okay to eat shellfish during a red tide?
No, shellfish should not be eaten during a red tide. If a shellfish-harvesting ban is in effect, it is not safe to eat molluscs (e.g. clams and oysters). However, edible parts of other animals commonly called shellfish (e.g. crabs, shrimp, and lobsters) are not affected by the red tide organism and can be eaten.
Which shellfish are included in a shellfish-harvesting ban?
Harvesting of bivalve molluscs such as clams, oysters, and coquinas is banned during red tides.
Is it okay to eat fish, crabs, or shrimp during a red tide?
Yes, fish, crabs, and shrimp can be eaten during a red tide because the toxin is not absorbed in the edible tissues of these animals. However, if a red tide is in the area, eating distressed or dead animals is discouraged because the reason for the animal's strange behaviour or death cannot be absolutely known. It could be something unrelated to red tide.
Is it okay to eat scallops during a red tide?
Yes, as long as you only eat the muscle of the scallop. Do not eat whole animals.
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