HAB

HAB (Harmful Algae Bloom) is a rapid increase in the population of algae in an aquatic system. Algal bloom happens when environmental conditions are favorable for the development of algae to multiply their cells in high numbers. They can be any color, but the most common ones are red or brown, which are known as red or brown tides. Most algal blooms aren't harmful but some affect fish and humans in negative ways. These are known as Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).

There are a number of different reasons algal blooms can occur. Nutrient enrichment of water is often the result of pollution and algal blooms. Water temperature is also related to the rapid production of algal cells. The warmer the water, the more likely algal blooms will form. One specie of HAB is Chaetoceros (shown above). Chaetoceros is a diatom with spines that can get stuck in fish gills which causes suffocation. 

There are many different steps the man is taking to prevent HABs. One is creating Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Marine sites, such as sanctuaries, fishery management areas, state conservation areas, and wildlife refuges are established to protect habitats and endangered species. MPAs also restore the health of marine ecosystems in areas jeopardized by habitat and species loss.

Currently 37 microalgal species have been documented in Gulf of Mexico waters. Scientists have discovered that the marine dinoflagellate, Karenia brevis, was responsible for the extensive blooms that have occurred in the region. These dinoflagellates produce potent toxins which have been responsible for killing millions of fish and causing shellfish poisoning in humans near the Gulf Coast. It's reported that a single red tide in the Gulf Coast of Florida costs about $20 million, including losses to the tourism industry, hotel suppliers, commercial fishers, and local governments for the expense of the beach cleanup.