As of 06/15/05
In General:
Red tide and its effects are being reported in near shore waters between Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor. Cell counts are fluctuating between low and high. Dead fish and respiratory irritation are being reported from St. Petersburg to Venice.
Southwest Florida Gulf of Mexico
A red tide bloom is currently found from lower Tampa Bay southward to Venice. Moderate to high concentrations were reported by Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota Bay, with low to moderate concentrations reported by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute elsewhere within the bloom area. Dead fish and respiratory irritation have been observed throughout the area as well.
Scientists from Mote and the FWRI are continuing to monitor the situation and to pursue research into factors affecting dynamics of the bloom, adverse effects from the toxins and ways to mitigate these effects. The amount of respiratory irritation will depend on the direction and intensity of the wind. Light winds and winds blowing off-shore should minimize adverse effects along the beaches. Sporadic reports of dead fish and respiratory irritation may occur, depending on local conditions. It is important to note that as atmospheric and oceanic conditions change, algal bloom conditions change as well, making forecasting very difficult.
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