Red Tide
About Red Tide
Florida red tide is a higher-than-normal concentration of a naturally occurring, microscopic algae called Karenia brevis, often abbreviated as K. brevis. It produces brevetoxins — powerful and potent neurotoxins — that can kill marine animals and be harmful to humans.
Red tides form many miles offshore, sometimes causing no impact to humans. However, when red tides travel inshore on wind and water currents, they can cause respiratory irritation among beachgoers, especially those who have underlying lung diseases. - Mote Marine Laboratory
One of the most frequent symptoms people experience during a Karenia brevis red tide is respiratory irritation. If you have ever visited a beach during a red tide, you may have experienced the "red tide tickle" which can include itchy throat and coughing.
Brevetoxins, chemicals produced by Florida red tide, may also irritate pre-existing respiratory conditions including asthma. Persons with asthma are advised to bring their inhaler to the beach during a red tide or avoid the area until conditions improve. Some swimmers experience skin irritation and rashes after swimming in waters with a severe red tide. They have also reported eye irritation from the sea foam.
In some red tides, dead fish wash ashore; during these conditions it is advised that beachgoers avoid swimming in water where dead fish are present. - Florida Department of Health
Quick Links and Current Conditions
Florida Department of Environmental Protection
FDEP Algal Bloom Dashboard
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Daily Sampling Map
Statewide Red Tide Status
FWC Red Tide FAQs
Mote Marine Laboratory
Daily Beach Conditions (Updated daily at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.)
Mote Marine Laboratory Red Tide FAQs
DOH-Sarasota
Water Quality Update
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Algal Bloom Forecast
Algal Blooms Observing System
Tourism and Travel Alerts
Visit Sarasota
How to Report:
For manatees, dolphins, whales and marine turtles, please report by using the FWC Hotline at 1-888-404-3922.
Be prepared to describe the location of the animal and take a picture, if possible. An FWC biologist will return the call to get additional details as well as the picture, if available.
For all other types of fish, call 800-636-0511 or report online to FWC.