Tampa Bay Watch closely follows reports from state and local entities providing water quality monitoring data and updates associated with Red Tide. In addition, we strive to understand the relevant science behind the occurrence of blooms. However, we do not have a program to study or monitor Red Tide, or any other water quality condition, in the area. For these updates, please refer to FWC, Mote Marine, or your local Governments’ Water Quality Monitoring program. 
- Red Tide is caused by a phytoplankton called Karenia brevis. The term “Red Tide” refers to when a high concentration of this organism causes a bloom.
- K. brevis and its associated blooms occur naturally, and have been documented for over 100 years.
- These organisms feed on nutrients from a number of naturally occurring sources typically found in our local waters, but there is growing consensus that human-related impacts may play a role in the severity and longevity of blooms.
- If Red Tide blooms are present in an area, you should take considerations before going to the beach and going in the water, particularly if you have a compromised immune system or if you suffer from a bronchial disease like asthma or emphysema. Respiratory irritation can occur even in healthy people when exposed to Red Tide.
- Do not collect and eat dead fish caused by algal blooms as they may pose a health hazard if consumed.
- If you find a fish kill, contact FWC’s Fish Kill Hotline at 800-636-0511.
- Local counties are responsible for disposal of dead fish related to widespread fish kills. Contact Pinellas County at:727-824-6900, or Hillsborough County at 813-307-8000.
Click here to visit FWC’s red tide monitoring page. This is the best possible source of up-to-date information for red tide blooms in Florida. It includes detailed maps and written information of the areas affected. Additionally, if you have google earth, there is a downloadable shapefile that allows you to zoom in on the monitoring sites.
Click here for a great link for Pinellas County residents, and includes several maps and links to other resources.
Click here to access the webpage of the Ocean Circulation Group at USF College of Marine Science. When a red tide bloom occurs, they collect data and input that into a ocean circulation model to come up with a prediction for where the bloom will go. Subsequent maps are produced and can be viewed at this page.
Click here for a link to a clear, concise summary of a major study of the food sources of Karenia brevis (the phytoplankton responsible for red tide) done a few years ago.
Information courtesy of Tampa Bay Watch.