About H2oMYCO - Project AFA
What is Red Tide
Red Tide, also known as harmful algal blooms (HABs), is a phenomenon that occurs when microscopic algae multiply to high concentrations, often discoloring the water. In the Gulf of Mexico, over 50 HAB species are present, but the most well-known in Florida is Karenia brevis. This particular organism is responsible for the frequent and persistent Red Tide blooms seen along Florida's coasts, especially between Clearwater and Sanibel Island.
The Impact of Red Tide on Marine Life
K. brevis produces potent brevetoxins that can be lethal to fish, birds, and other marine animals. These toxins are released into the air when wave action breaks open the algae cells, causing respiratory irritation and other health problems in humans. Consumption of contaminated shellfish can lead to Neurotoxic Shellfish Poisoning, a serious health concern.
Economic Impact
Tourism Losses:
Red Tide events can cause substantial declines in tourism revenue due to beach closures and negative perceptions of affected areas. The 2018 Red Tide bloom resulted in estimated tourism losses of over $184 million across Florida.
Commercial Fishing and Aquaculture:
The fishing industry suffers due to the direct impact of Red Tide on marine life. The 2018 bloom led to the closure of shellfish harvesting areas and a decline in fish landings, with estimated losses exceeding $8 million for the commercial fishing sector.
Local Businesses:
Businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retail shops experience significant downturns during Red Tide events. Some areas reported declines in revenue of up to 40% during peak tourist seasons, contributing to millions of dollars in lost income.
Real Estate:
Red Tide affects property values and real estate transactions. Waterfront property demand decreases during severe Red Tide events, leading to lower property values and reduced real estate activity.
Healthcare Costs:
The health impacts of Red Tide, particularly respiratory issues, incur additional costs related to medical care and lost productivity. Annual healthcare costs associated with Red Tide-related illnesses in Florida are estimated to range from $15 million to $25 million.
Estimated Remediation Costs:
Combined remediation efforts in Florida following severe Red Tide blooms can exceed $20 million annually. These costs highlight the critical need for proactive strategies and investments in Red Tide prevention, monitoring, and response to minimize the economic and environmental impact on the state.
About H2oMYCO - Project AFA
Innovative Fungal Intervention Through Project AFA
At H2oMYCO, we have developed a pioneering solution to combat the destructive impact of Red Tide in Southwest Florida. Our approach involves the use of specific aquatic parasitic fungi that target and decompose the algae responsible for Red Tide. The fungi attach to the long strands of Karenia brevis, breaking them down into smaller, more manageable particles.
A SOlution H2oMYCO - Project AFA
Lake Okeechobee: The Starting Point
Our initial project focuses on Lake Okeechobee, a critical water body in Florida that has been significantly affected by algal blooms in recent years. It is the eighth-largest natural freshwater lake among the 50 states of the United States and the second-largest natural freshwater lake contained entirely within the contiguous 48 states, after Lake Michigan. By introducing and/or enhancing the proliferation of specific aquatic parasitic fungi into the lake, we aim to break down the red tide and other harmful algae into smaller, non-toxic particles that can be safely consumed by marine life.
Expanding Our Reach
After the success in Lake Okeechobee, we plan to expand our remediation efforts across Florida’s other vulnerable water bodies and beyond. Toxic algal blooms are an ongoing environmental concern, actively affecting water bodies in at least 30 states across the United States. These harmful blooms pose significant threats to public health, aquatic ecosystems, and local economies, highlighting the urgent need for innovative and sustainable solutions.This approach not only helps to restore the natural balance in these ecosystems but also provides a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to a problem that has plagued the state for decades. Our goal is to foster healthier waterways that support a diverse range of aquatic life and reduce the economic burden of algae-related issues.