- Thread starter
- #205,591
An unusually persistent harmful algal bloom (red tide) is currently affecting portions of the coasts of Florida. It has persisted on the southwest coast since October 2017 and, more recently, spread to the Panhandle and the east coast of Florida. A short-lived bloom also occurred in Texas in September, 2018. Red tides, caused by Karenia brevis algae, produce toxins that can cause fish kills, respiratory irritation, and mortality of sea turtles, manatees, birds, and dolphins. For the latest updates, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's red tide status website, the Texas Parks and Wildlife's red tide status website, or the NOAA Harmful Algal Bloom Bulletin.