Kiera Jefferson
Jacksonville, Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches and water bodies, but in recent years, the city has been facing an increasing problem of algae pollution. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, have been found in high concentrations in the St. Johns River, with toxin levels up to 300 times the safe limit. This has led to health concerns for both residents and tourists, as exposure to these toxins can cause various health issues such as rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, and respiratory problems. With the algae blooms affecting the water quality and the environment, Jacksonville is now focusing on ways to combat this issue and restore its natural beauty.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types of algae | Blue-green algae, Red tide, Sargassum |
| Algae characteristics | Can be blue, bright green, brown or red, with a strong odor |
| Algae toxins | Cyanotoxins |
| Toxin effects | Rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, respiratory irritation, liver and nervous system issues |
| Causes of algae | Excess nutrients in the river, primarily nitrogen |
| Algae testing locations | St. Johns River, St. Vincent's Hospital, Seminole Road in Avondale, Trout River, River Road in San Marco |
| Algae testing results | Toxin levels up to 300x the safe limit |
| Preventive measures | Limit fertilizer use, pick up dog waste, maintain septic tanks, advocate for protective policies |
| Health advisories | Duval County Health Department issued a health alert |
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What You'll Learn
Toxin levels in algae samples
Microcystins are a class of toxins produced by freshwater cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA states that microcystis is the most common bloom-forming genus and is almost always toxic. The current recommended limit for total microcystins is 8 micrograms per liter (ug/L). Samples from the St. Johns River and Trout River were found to contain levels of toxins far exceeding this limit.
The toxins produced by these blooms can cause a range of health issues for both humans and animals. Rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and respiratory irritation are among the most common symptoms of exposure. In addition, high levels of toxin exposure can affect the liver and nervous system, and in some cases, lead to neurotoxic shellfish poisoning if contaminated shellfish are consumed.
The cause of the blue-green algae bloom in Jacksonville has been attributed to excess nutrients in the river, primarily nitrogen. Citizens can help prevent algae blooms by limiting the use of fertilizers, properly disposing of waste, maintaining septic tanks, and advocating for protective policies to reduce nutrient loading in waterways.
It is important for residents and visitors of Jacksonville to stay informed about water quality and health advisories to ensure their safety and well-being.
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Blue-green algae and health risks
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms that are naturally found in lakes and streams. They can be blue, bright green, brown, or red, and may have a strong odour similar to rotting plants. When specific conditions are met, blue-green algae can proliferate rapidly in warm, undisturbed, nutrient-rich waters exposed to sunlight, leading to a phenomenon called a "bloom." These blooms may manifest as discoloured water, floating mats, scums, or paints on the water's surface. They can also form on rocks, along the shoreline, or at the bottom of a water body, making them difficult to detect.
While not all blooms are harmful, certain types of blue-green algae produce toxins (cyanotoxins) that can pose significant health risks to both humans and animals. These toxins can affect the liver, kidneys, or nervous system and cause skin, eye, or throat irritation. Exposure to high levels of blue-green algae toxins can lead to various health issues, including rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Inhalation of airborne droplets containing the toxins can result in respiratory irritation, especially for individuals sensitive to smells.
The health effects of blue-green algae toxins can vary depending on the type of toxin, the concentration, the duration of exposure, and the route of exposure (such as swallowing water or skin contact). Ingesting large amounts of contaminated water is the primary cause of illness, as the toxins cannot easily penetrate the skin. However, it is important to note that even treated water may not be completely protected from blue-green algae and their toxins.
In Jacksonville, Florida, algae blooms have been detected with toxin levels up to 300 times higher than the safe limit. These high toxin levels pose risks not only to humans but also to pets and livestock. Citizens are advised to take preventive measures, such as limiting the use of fertilisers, properly disposing of waste, and maintaining septic tanks, to help reduce the occurrence of algae blooms and protect themselves and their animals from potential health hazards.
If you suspect any symptoms related to exposure to harmful algal blooms, it is recommended to seek medical advice or contact the Poison Control hotline. Additionally, pet owners should be vigilant and contact a veterinarian immediately if their pets exhibit any signs of illness after potential exposure to contaminated water.
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Red tide and health risks
Red tide is caused by a naturally occurring, single-celled organism called Karenia brevis, which belongs to a group of algae known as dinoflagellates. It can cause coughing and sneezing, irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and lead to skin irritation, rashes, and burning and sore eyes. People with asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, or any chronic lung disease may experience worse reactions to red tide, according to the Florida Department of Health.
In addition to the health risks posed by direct contact with red tide, there are also dangers associated with consuming contaminated shellfish. Red tide toxins can accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish, such as oysters and clams, leading to neurotoxic shellfish poisoning in individuals who consume them.
The release of cyanotoxins into the air is another concern. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, can release these toxins when the algae cells are broken apart by activities such as swimming or boating. People and animals may then inhale the toxins, leading to respiratory issues, especially for those sensitive to smells.
Furthermore, swallowing large amounts of contaminated water can cause illness, including stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. In some cases, high exposures to toxins can affect the liver and nervous system, posing a serious health risk.
To protect yourself, it is important to stay informed about water quality and health advisories, especially before engaging in recreational activities near affected bodies of water. Citizens can also play a role in preventing algae blooms and nutrient pollution by adopting environmentally conscious practices, such as limiting fertilizer use and properly disposing of waste.
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Sources of contamination
The City of Jacksonville Beach gets its drinking water from the Floridian Aquifer. The water is treated to remove hydrogen sulfide, disinfected with chlorine, and then pressurised for the water distribution system. In 2021, the Department of Environmental Protection identified 14 potential sources of contamination with low to moderate levels of susceptibility.
The St. Johns Riverkeeper reported that samples from the St. Johns River, Trout River, and other Jacksonville waterways contained blue-green algae toxins far in excess of safe levels. The cause of the bloom has been attributed to excess nutrients, primarily nitrogen, in the river.
Blue-green algae are types of bacteria called cyanobacteria. They can be blue, bright green, brown, or red, and can have a strong odour similar to rotting plants. If people or animals splash in the water or if boats create wakes, the algae cells can break apart, releasing cyanotoxins into the air and water. These toxins can cause various health issues for people and animals, including rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhoea, respiratory irritation, and, in cases of high exposure, liver and nervous system problems.
Red tide, caused by the naturally occurring, single-celled organism Karenia brevis, can also cause health issues such as coughing, sneezing, eye and throat irritation, and skin rashes. Reactions can be worse for those with asthma or other chronic lung diseases. Red tide toxins can also accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish, leading to neurotoxic shellfish poisoning in people who consume them.
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Preventing algae blooms
Algal blooms, also known as cyanoHABs, are a natural process that has occurred throughout history. However, human activities have intensified their frequency and adverse impacts. These activities include agricultural runoff, dissolved chemicals in water supplies, and effluent from sewage treatment plants, all of which contribute to excess nutrients in waterways that promote algae growth.
To prevent algal blooms, it is crucial to address these nutrient sources and reduce nutrient loading in water bodies. Here are some strategies to achieve that:
- Reducing fertilizer use: Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus compounds from fertilizers contribute significantly to algal blooms. Limiting fertilizer application near water bodies can help reduce the nutrient load and slow algae growth.
- Proper waste management: Stormwater runoff, pet waste, and human sewage can introduce enteric bacteria and other pollutants into water bodies, promoting algal blooms. Proper waste management, including maintaining septic tanks and picking up after pets, can help reduce this source of pollution.
- Controlling livestock access: Livestock waste is another source of nutrients for algae. Limiting livestock access to water bodies or properly managing their waste can reduce nutrient runoff.
- Removing decaying plant material: Fallen leaves, dead bugs, and other decaying organic matter provide nutrients for algae. Regularly removing this debris from water bodies can help reduce the available food source for algae growth.
- Shading and filtration: Algae rely on sunlight for photosynthesis. Providing shade over water bodies, such as through vegetation or shading products, can reduce the amount of sunlight available for algae growth. Additionally, filtration methods can be employed to block or absorb sunlight, such as using dyes or straw bales, which also help reduce algal growth.
- Introducing beneficial bacteria: Adding specific bacteria, such as proteobacteria, can help compete with cyanobacteria for nutrients, potentially reducing the dominance of cyanobacteria and the likelihood of algal blooms.
By implementing these strategies, communities can actively contribute to preventing algal blooms and reducing their negative impacts on the environment, human health, and local economies.
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Frequently asked questions
Toxin levels in algae samples from Jacksonville, Florida, have been found to be up to 300 times the safe limit.
Exposure to blue-green algae can cause rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, and respiratory irritation. High exposure to toxins can also affect the liver and nervous system.
The cause of the bloom has been attributed to excess nutrients in the river, primarily nitrogen.
Citizens can help prevent algae blooms and nutrient pollution by limiting the use of fertilisers, picking up dog waste, maintaining septic tanks, and demanding that their elected officials implement protective policies to reduce nutrient loading in waterways.
