What causes a red tide?
AnswerA harmful algal bloom
Red tide is a dense bloom of microscopic algae.
Nature · Facts & stats
Red Tide facts & stats
7 fact-checked facts about red tide and harmful algal blooms, each with the reason behind it. 5 more are in today's round and join this page after it closes.
The basics
What effect can red tide have on people at the beach?
AnswerCoughing and throat irritation
Toxins can become airborne in sea spray and irritate airways.
Going deeper
Which toxins does Karenia brevis produce?
AnswerBrevetoxins
Brevetoxins are named after K. brevis.
What shellfish illness is linked to red tide toxins?
AnswerNeurotoxic shellfish poisoning
Brevetoxins in shellfish cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning, which is why harvests close.
Why do scientists prefer the term harmful algal bloom over red tide?
AnswerBlooms aren't always red and aren't caused by tides
The older name is misleading on both color and cause.
Expert level
How do dinoflagellates move through water?
AnswerUsing two whip-like flagella
Their name comes from the whirling motion of their flagella.
Which Florida research group is known for monitoring red tide statewide?
AnswerFish and Wildlife Research Institute
FWRI, part of Florida's wildlife commission, samples and reports on red tide.
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