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Red tide likely cause of massive fish kill on Sanibel Island

 
Published Nov. 20, 2015

SANIBEL ISLAND — A massive fish kill on Sanibel Island could keep beachgoers out of the water and off of the sand.

The News-Press reports that beachcombers this week are finding thousands of dead fish strewn across the normally picture-perfect beach. It's likely the result of red tide.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says the algae bloom is common in November and has made its way to southwest Florida.

Fish kills can also be caused by sudden increase or decrease in water temperatures, as some fish species are sensitive to these types of environmental changes. Red tide, caused by Karenia brevis, has been festering off Sarasota County for several weeks, and recent counts have shown low to moderate levels in Lee County waters.