Red tides
Red Tides
Red tides (pronunciation: /rɛd taɪdz/), also known as Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), are a type of marine phenomenon where certain phytoplankton species proliferate and accumulate, causing the water to appear red or brown. The term "red tide" is a misnomer as these events are not associated with tides and can also occur in freshwater bodies.
Etymology
The term "red tide" is derived from the reddish-brown color that the water takes on during these events. The color is due to the high concentration of pigmented dinoflagellates, a type of phytoplankton.
Related Terms
- Dinoflagellate: A type of single-celled organism that is often responsible for red tides. They are a type of phytoplankton and are known for their two flagella and bioluminescence.
- Phytoplankton: Microscopic organisms that live in watery environments, both salty and fresh. They are the primary food source for many marine animals and are responsible for much of the Earth's oxygen production.
- Harmful Algal Bloom: A rapid increase or accumulation in the population of algae in freshwater or marine water systems. It is often associated with large-scale marine mortality events and can have negative impacts on human health.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Red tides
- Wikipedia's article - Red tides
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