PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Scientists with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute are receiving reports of a certain fish over 30 inches in length dying from effects of red tide.
On Tuesday, authorities posted that they have received reports of spawning Red Drum fish dying in Pinellas County from red tide.
In August, an executive order declared that Red Drum fish and Snook were to be caught and released until May.
The dead fish are being reported to the state’s text notification system at 727-272-8505.
In a Facebook post, the agency posted that they have collected over 120 fin clips and they expect the number to rise.
They have asked professional fishing guides from Naples to Tarpon Spring to help locate and track the dead fish.
The Fin clips will be used for genetic profiling to compare the results from red drum fish between 2012 and 2014.
On Thursday, Pinellas County authorities found high concentrations of red tide at Treasure Island Beach, the Intracoastal Waterway near Belleair Beach City Hall, John’s Pass Channel, Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, Redington Shores Beach, Gulfport fishing pier and Pass-A-Grille Beach.
On Wednesday, the county had 20 boats working in the Intracoastal Waterway from Clearwater Pass to the Pinellas Bayway.
Small businesses impacted by Red Tide can apply for a Florida Emergency Bridge loan until December 3. This will give owners an interest-free loan of up to $50,000 for 180 days.
For more information contact the Florida Small Business Development at 727-453-7200.
