A bloom of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, has been observed in Southwest Florida along Manatee and Sarasota counties.
Karenia brevis was observed in background to high concentrations in 41 samples collected from Manatee and Sarasota counties, background to very low concentrations in five samples collected from Pinellas County, and three samples collected from Charlotte County.
Fish kills affecting multiple species, along with some respiratory irritation for people, have been reported in Manatee and Sarasota counties to the FWC since Sept. 19.
For a forecast of the algal movement and additional information, visit www. myfwc.com/research/redtide/statewide.