Mote Marine Laboratory reports increased signs of red tide along Southwest Florida

SARASOTA -- Scientists with the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium are studying a recent increase of the harmful Florida red tide algae, Karenia brevis, off southwest Florida's coast.

The Sarasota-based laboratory announced Tuesday red tide algae was detected in low concentrations in 26 samples collected in, along and offshore of Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties during the week leading up to Oct. 9.

"Right now the only human impact from red tide has been at Siesta Key, Nokomis and North Jetty beaches," said Dr. Tracy Fanara, a staff scientist with Mote Marine. "We haven't experienced any impact on the beaches in Manatee County."

According to Mote Marine, slight respiratory irritation and some dead fish were reported Tuesday onshore at Venice North Jetty, and slight respiratory irritation was also reported at Siesta Key and Nokomis by Mote's Beach Conditions Reporting System, which monitors conditions at multiple Gulf Coast beaches as often as twice daily.

When red tide algae cells are present in elevated concentrations, people may experience respiratory irritation such as coughing, sneezing or a scratchy throat while at the shore or on the water.

"These symptoms are temporary and often considered an annoyance, but people with asthma, (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or other chronic respiratory conditions should avoid areas with red tide algae, since the toxins can trigger their symptoms," a release states.

Staff scientist Dr. Vincent Lovko said the laboratory has been collecting water samples since mid-September and began to notice elevated concentrations of red tide algae.

The concentrations are based on cell count per liter of water examined, Lovko said. Samples thus far range from nearly undetectable to 100,000 red tide cells in one liter.

"I would just suggest that everyone check the beach conditions system report regularly so they can make the right decisions," Fanara said. "It's their safest bet to have a good beach experience."

Lovko said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reports twice a week on red tide.

Information: Go to mote.org/beaches andmyfwc.com/redtidestatus.

Amaris Castillo, law enforcement/island reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7051. Follow her on Twitter@AmarisCastillo.

This story was originally published October 14, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Mote Marine Laboratory reports increased signs of red tide along Southwest Florida ."