Chuanmin Hu of USF is providing background on large blooms of Karenia brevis algae that have been observed near Tampa Bay. The microscopic algae produce neurotoxins that harm fish and create respiratory problems in humans. These blooms are observed using natural-color images and chlorophyll fluorescence maps.

“If a bloom is out on the continental shelf, it is more easily diluted,” said Hu. “The bloom this year is so troublesome because it is both inside Tampa Bay and around the Tampa Bay mouth.” The red tide bloom of the harmful algae is unusual for this time of year and could continue to kill fish on large scales.

• Chuanmin Hu