Red Tides are the result of "blooms"
of microscopic plankton. Favorable conditions
for the formation of a red tide include nutrient
rich waters, ample sunlight, and reduced vertical
mixing of the ocean water itself.
Most red tides are harmless to humans that swim
or surf in them, but eating shellfish and other
filter feeders from areas where red tides have
persisted is dangerous, so be careful. If exposed
to waters containing a red tide it is recommended
to shower promptly after leaving the water so
that the thousands or millions of cells that are
on your body or in your suit are washed away before
they die on your skin, which could release the
toxins that are contained in the plankton's single
celled body.
So enjoy the surf, don't drink the water and use
the shower at the beach. Clean out your ears when
you are done and everything should be just fine.
(Courtesy of Tom Ford, Staff Scientist, Santa
Monica Baykeeper and Venice surfer)
