What are the impacts of red tides?
In the Gulf of Mexico, one of the most common HABs is the phytoplankton species Karenia brevis. Commonly known as red tide, this organism produces a toxin that can cause respiratory irritation in humans, contaminate some shellfish, and affect the central nervous system of fish – potentially causing fish kills. When Karenia brevis cells near the ocean surface are broken up by surf at the shore or by breaking waves offshore, the toxin is released into the air and known as aerosol. Winds blowing onshore can bring the aerosol onto the beach, potentially causing eye and respiratory irritation (coughing, sneezing, tearing, and itching) to beachgoers. Onshore wind and currents can also transport fish killed by exposure to the toxin onto the beach. Respiratory irritation in humans is significantly reduced when the winds are blowing offshore. Any effects usually decline when a person is no longer exposed, and wearing a particle mask can reduce irritation for some people. People with severe or p
