The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported a red tide bloom in southwestern Florida last week.
Karenia brevis was observed at background concentrations in Sarasota County, low to medium concentrations in Charlotte County, and very low to high concentrations in and/or off Lee and Collier counties.
Five samples from Lee and Collier counties contained high concentrations of the organism, more than 1 million cells per liter, according to the FWC. Fish kills were reported in these two counties, as well as respiratory irritation.
FWC recommended following its algal bloom Facebook page for updates.
