Algae
Blooms and Pfiesteria
Algae can be found in waters around the world from the
Gulf of Mexico to Antarctica and even in your fish tank. Algae can be
as large as the kelp forests off California or so small that they can’t
be seen by the naked eye. Algae are a vital part of the food chain, serving
as a primary food source for many types of fish. Most algae are harmless
in small quantities, but large quantities of algae can deplete oxygen
levels threatening other marine organisms. Some algae can even be toxic
to both marine life and humans. When these toxic algae multiply rapidly
in an area it is often referred to as a Harmful Algal Bloom, or Red or
Brown tide.
Why
Should I Care?
Harmful Algal Blooms,
while rare, can negatively impact water quality and human health. As someone
who enjoys being out on the water it is important to know if there is
a Harmful Algal Bloom in your area. Your state’s Department of Natural
Resources monitors local water conditions and will provide information
on Algal blooms in your area. It is important not to swim or fish in waters
where there is a Harmful Algal Bloom. The toxins in the algae can accumulate
in fish tissue and harm humans.
 It
is difficult to prevent Harmful Algal Blooms as their causes are still
somewhat unknown. It is best to stay informed about your local water quality
conditions when fishing and swimming. If you are on the water and notice
unusual conditions such as reddish colored water or large numbers of sick
or dead fish contact your state’s Natural Resource agency.
What
is Pfiesteria?
Pfiesteria piscicida
is a microorganism that belongs to a group of algae known as "dinoflagellates".
It occurs naturally in waterways along the East Coast (has for thousands
of years) in at least 24 known life stages. All but four stages are harmless.
Under certain conditions, populations may suddenly increase (bloom) and
change into one of the four toxic life stages. The Pfiesteria cells then
emit toxins that stun fish and dissolve their scales and skin, enabling
them to feed on the fish and cause deep ulcers (lesions). Pfiesteria has
been linked to fish lesions and fish kills in coastal waters from Maryland
to North Carolina.
What
should I do if I see a fish kill or large numbers of fish with lesions?
- Avoid contact
with the water.
- Use caution when
handling fish with lesions. Wear gloves or release fish without touching
by using a dehooking tool.
- Leave area immediately.
- Contact the appropriate
state agency to report your observations.
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