Thousands Of Fish Spotted Dead In Florida Coast Due To Red Tide

Thousands of dead fish lined up the gulf coast of Florida due to red tide. They were washed up on beaches in Sarasota and Manatee counties and even the Sirata Beach Resort in the past week.

Locals raise alarm about fish kill, asking what might be the cause https://t.co/i4Zm87DkPI

— ABC 7 WWSB (@mysuncoast) September 28, 2016

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) said the toxic gas from the algae bloom could affect the people with asthma and other breathing issues. During the red tide, a toxin is released in the water that kills the marine creatures.

According to Christian Science Monitor, the harmful algae blooms damages the ecosystems. Karenia Brevis, which is the source of toxins during the red tide, infects the waters off the coasts of Florida, Mexico and Texas.

Kaitlyn Fusco from the More Marine Laboratory said that in addition to killing fish, the toxins can also harm mammals and marine birds. She further said that red tide blooms occur typically in the fall into the winter, as it is expected. The algae blooms could last for months.

Meanwhile, the tourists who are spending in beach resorts and other businessmen are affected by the red tide. One owner of the restaurant said that he had lost 40 percent in his business because of the dead fish.

Meanwhile, Reid Silverboard, the Treasure Island City manager said that they were preparing to clean the beaches. He further said that it hasn't done any damage yet inside the canals, but in the south part of Sunset Park and Boca Ciega Bay, there're some issues to deal with, as noted by Tampabay.

The FWC advise the swimmers to rinse off thoroughly after swimming in the water and the beachgoers not to take their pets along the beach. They also urging the residents of southwest Florida to report an incidence of fish kills, especially in Sarasota and Manatee.