MANATEE COUNTY – A fish killed by red tide is reported in an area close to Piney Point.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Karenia brevis algae has grown in areas near Port Manatee that were more affected by the Piney Point wastewater leak.
Red tide levels are now at medium levels there, which can cause respiratory irritation and can kill fish.
The Herald-Tribune reports this fish kill associated with the red tide bloom is in areas near Port Manatee. However, experts say many factors contribute to red tide bloom.
USF experts reported in May that the Piney Point wastewater largely diluted, and the bloom from Charlotte Harbor has made its way up the coast.
Thus, it’s too soon to understand how much Piney Point is affecting the current bloom.
