Algae again threatening Florida’s Indian River Lagoon

COCOA BEACH, Fla. – Scientists are seeing concerning levels of algae this year in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon just two years after massive blooms led to the worst fish kills on record.

Florida Today reports that biologists are measuring similar algae levels in the lagoon’s waters that they saw before the devastating 2016 blooms.

The lagoon on the state’s Atlantic Coast is one of the most biologically diverse waterways in the nation.

When algae grow at high concentrations in the water they remove oxygen used by fish, manatees and other creatures.

Kayakers are reporting that the lagoon’s waters appear olive-brown in colour, rather than clear as in years past.

While no fish kills have been reported yet, biologists are worried that the problem will worsen as temperatures rise.

___

Information from: Florida Today (Melbourne, Fla.), http://www.floridatoday.com

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles