Species Type:
Plants & Algae
Common Name(s):
Red tide
Size:
Red tide cells are microscopic, meaning they can't be seen with the bare eye, measuring at 40—60 micrometers.
Diet:
Red tide is a photosynthetic algae, using sunlight on the ocean's surface for energy.
Range & Habitat:
Red tide is found in the more shallow, photic zones of coastal waters, thriving in warmer tropical and subtropical climates.
Details:
Red tide grows in both fresh and marine water as a brown-red substance floating at the surface and shallow water columns. Its toxins affect humans, marine mammals, fish, shellfish and birds. If you visit the beach and experience a strong fishy odor and a burning sensation in your nose/lungs, there could be an active red tide bloom.
