Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission –

Red Tide Status Update for December 11, 2020

Current Conditions

A bloom of the red tide organism, Karenia brevis, was observed in Southwest Florida over the past week. Background to low concentrations of K. brevis were detected in 36 samples. Bloom concentrations (> 100,000 cells/liter) were observed in five samples from or offshore of Lee and Collier counties. Additional details are provided below.

  • In Southwest Florida over the past week,  K. brevis was observed at background concentrations in five samples from and/or offshore of Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee counties. Background to high concentrations of K. brevis were observed in 34 samples from and offshore of Lee County, and very low and medium concentrations were detected in two samples from Collier County. For additional information, view the Southwest Coast report and map.
  • In Northwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was not observed. For additional information, view the Northwest Coast report and map.
  • Along the Florida East Coast over the past week, K. brevis was not observed. For additional information, view the East Coast report and map.
Fish Kills

No fish kills suspected to be related to red tide were reported over the past week (please see https://myfwc.com/research/saltwater/health/fish-kills-hotline).

Respiratory Irritation

Respiratory irritation was reported over the past week in Southwest Florida (in Collier County). Additional details are provided in the Southwest Coast report.

Latest Red Tide Status Report Available by Phone

Call 866-300-9399 at any time from anywhere in Florida to hear a recording about red tide conditions throughout the state. Callers outside of Florida can dial 727-502-4952. Standard calling charges apply.

Reports are updated on Friday afternoon except during holidays, in which case the report will be released on the closest day. Additional information, if available, is provided on Wednesday afternoon. To receive an e-mail when the current status has been updated, visit our subscription area.

Additional Information

For additional information about red tide and the current red tide bloom, including information on how to report a fish kill or other wildlife effects, consult health authorities about human exposure, or locate other resources, visit our Red Tide-Related Hotlines and Information Sources article.