What is a "red tide"?

A "red tide" refers to a harmful algal bloom, where certain types of microscopic algae accumulate in large quantities in the water, leading to discoloration that can appear red or brown. This phenomenon often occurs when there is an excess of nutrients in the water, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, typically from runoff or pollution. These nutrient-rich conditions can stimulate rapid growth of algae, which can have detrimental effects on marine ecosystems, such as producing toxins harmful to marine life and humans, depleting oxygen levels, and disrupting local fisheries. Understanding red tide is essential for managing water quality and protecting aquatic life from its harmful effects.