August 27, 2026 — A Maze of Multi-Faceted Effects
Red tide occurs when the algae Karenia brevis blooms, releasing neurotoxins into Florida’s Gulf Coast waters and air. These harmful algal blooms disrupt marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. While managing these events is challenging, scientists are developing new strategies to navigate these complex impacts.
Red tides kill marine animals, including gag and red grouper, by exposing them to toxins and reducing oxygen in the water. Toxins also bioaccumulate in the food web, forcing mobile species to evacuate affected areas.
Beyond ecological damage, severe blooms inflict heavy economic tolls. A 2017–2019 bloom cost Florida an estimated $2.7 billion in tourism revenue. Anglers face increased operational costs and profit losses as they avoid affected areas. These financial pressures also negatively impact mental health, community identity, and industry retention.
A new review paper, led by the University of Miami Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Studies and NOAA Fisheries, synthesized the existing literature on this topic. It explored avenues for incorporating red tide impacts into the fishery management process. It supports the implementation of the Gulf Council’s Fishery Ecosystem Plan, which formalizes ecosystem-based fishery management in the region. The synthesis made significant progress in the realm of red tides by:
- Assessing ecological, economic, and sociocultural impacts of red tides on federal fisheries
- Suggesting a shift to more proactive management
- Providing advice to the Council to help fisheries be more resilient in the face of these shocks
- Highlighting knowledge gaps and research opportunities regarding red tide