Red Tide Algae Lurks Off Gulf Coast (moved from ATSNN), page 1

A 400 square mile bloom of Red Tide Algae is lurking in the Gulf Coast area. Red Tide Algae produces toxins that affect not only a fish's central nervous system, but also affect shellfish. If the shellfish are eaten, it can cause a person to suffer tingling of the mouth and fingers, loss of coordination, hot and cold flashes, and diarrhea.
Officials have stated that this is the largest bloom they have ever encountered.

abcnews.go.com
MARCO ISLAND, Fla. Dec 8, 2004 � Scientists are tracking a 400 square-mile bloom of red tide algae lurking off the Gulf Coast, pointing to it as the likely cause of a mass fish kill and several dolphin deaths at the tip of the Florida peninsula.

Please visit the link provided for the complete story.

Yet another hazard to our fragile oceans. I would be curious as to what would be the cause of this bloom. I know that the algae is a living creature, however when it procreates to the point of this magnitude one must ask "why & how?". Is it a problem caused by man, or is it a natural phenomenon? Perhaps due to the amount of hurricanes this season?

On Another note, how is one able to tell whether or not shellfish have been subject to it? Is there any type of preparation that would stave off these toxins?

[edit on 12/8/2004 by superdude]