Southwest Florida has had its share of woes: Hurricane Ian last September and now red tide.
A red tide is an event that occurs on the coastline when algae grows out of control. The name “red tide” comes from the fact that overgrown algae can cause the water to change color. Red tides can be hazardous to human health and sea life.
Red tides are sometimes also called harmful algal blooms. Some of the algae that causes a red tide produce powerful toxins, which are harmful chemicals that can kill fish, shellfish, mammals and birds. Right now beaches are covered in dead fish and other animals that either ingested toxins or couldn’t get enough oxygen.
If people eat fish or shellfish that have been in the water with toxic algae, they will also ingest the toxins, which can make them sick. Many regions restrict fishing during a red tide for this reason. Nearby restaurants take local fish and shellfish off the menu, too. Local businesses are concerned that the red tide will drive away tourists and negatively impact south Florida's economy.
As we took boat rides around Cape Coral and Anna Maria Island, a few of us developed coughs and a little congestion from breathing the red tide air. Our resident friends were prepared and brought water and cough drops to alleviate the irritation.
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