Red tide was detected at levels described as “very low” on Longboat Key earlier this week, according to the Sarasota County Health Department Healthy Beaches Program.
Samples taken Monday, Oct. 8 revealed concentrations of Karenia brevis, the organism that causes red tide, at concentration of 5 cells per millimeter. Concentrations at these levels could cause possible respiratory irritation and shellfish harvesting closures.
Beaches in south Sarasota County have experienced the bulk of the current red tide outbreak, with K. brevis concentrations detected at 10,240 cells per milligram on Manasota Beach.
The Health Department working jointly with Mote Marine Laboratory conducts weekly red tide cell counts. Sampling typically takes place on Mondays, and results are usually available Wednesdays.
For more information, pick up an Oct. 18 copy of the Longboat Observer.
Contact Robin Hartill at rhartill@yourobserver.com.
Currently 0 Responses
-
Hat's off to Dee Pelton, volunteers
05/15/13
Dee Pelton held a luncheon that will be tough to top. -
Youth sailors descend on City Island
05/15/13
Approximately 250 people hit the water Saturday, April 20 through Sunday, April 21, for Sailfest. The regatta, Sarasota Youth Sailing's biggest fundraiser of the year, included four classes of competition — Optimus, 420, Laser and Multi-hull — and a barbecue feast. -
Book club sunsets for the season
05/15/13
The Sunset Beach Book Club, in its 10th year, ended this season with a luncheon and discussion of the book “Gone Girl,” by Gillian Flynn, April 18, at Lazy Lobster. Discussion moderator was Ricki Carroll. Together, the group read five books this season.
