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In the summer, iron-rich dust blows from the Sahara Desert in Africa across the Atlantic and settles in the Gulf of Mexico and surrounding areas, fueling Trichodesmium blooms that may accumulate closer to shore. Trichodesmium is a marine cyanobacterium (blue-green algae) found worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters, blooms every year in the Gulf of Mexico. In southwest Florida, blooms can extend for miles and are visible from space. Occasionally, wind and currents can transport Trichodesmium blooms to the east coast of Florida. In general, Trichodesmium is not a good food source for other organisms. Only a few specialized animals actively feed on it. Some strains of Trichodesmium do produce toxins, but researchers have not documented any negative effects of Trichodesmium on marine life or people in Florida. This is not a recent phenomenon: Reports of Trichodesmium blooms date back to the 1700s, when Captain James Cook of the British Royal Navy wrote about large, brown patches on the surface of the water that resembled sandbars. Learn more about Trichodesmium blooms on our website.
Manatee "Patchouli" Successfully Rehabbed and Released
After successful rehabilitation at SeaWorld Orlando, "Patchouli” was medically cleared for released at the Manatee Observation & Education Center in Fort Pierce in early July. Rescued last winter in Brevard County, the 10.5 ft. female manatee was observed to be in poor body condition and having buoyancy issues, both associated with the unusual mortality event affecting manatees on the east coast. Patchouli gained a solid 450lbs during recovery, weighing 1700lbs at her release on July 7th. Please report injured, sick or dead manatees to the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline: 888-404-3922. Florida residents, show your support for manatees - purchase a Save the Manatee license plate.
Report Turkey Sightings this Summer
Help biologists learn more about wild turkey populations. If you see a hen with or without poults, a jake or gobbler anywhere in Florida between now and Aug. 31, report those sightings here. By reporting wild turkey sightings, you can help FWC biologists learn more about annual nesting success, brood survival, and the distribution and abundance of wild turkeys. The FWC conducts the summer wild turkey survey every year. Learn more on our website.
Panther Team Finishes Final Health Assessment of FP262's First Litter
“It’s like finding a needle in a haystack,” said FWRI’s panther veterinarian when asked about locating a den of panther kittens. “They camouflage so well, flattening themselves in the brush, staying silent until you’re right next to them, then they hiss.” FWC’s panther team finished their second and final health assessment of FP262’s first litter of three kittens. When panther kittens are 2-3 weeks-old, biologists will conduct their first assessment. The panther team waits until the collared mom leaves the den to hunt, then quickly locate the kittens to begin their workup. Each kitten is sexed, weighed, dewormed and microchipped for ID. Biologists also take a small skin biopsy for genetics and fit the kittens with an expandable VHF collar that will fall off before maturity. During the final assessment at 5-6 weeks, biologists will check the kittens for weight gain/loss and ensure their collars are fitting properly. Kitten survival rate estimates are low (33%). Data collected from radio collared kittens can help improve these estimates and vital for monitor for changes in survival rates. Support Florida panther research and conservation, purchase a “Protect the Panther” license plate.
New on MyFWC.com/Research
We hope you enjoy these articles that have been recently added/updated on our website:
Red Tide Current Status
Red Tide-Related Hotlines and Information Sources
Annual Rescue Summaries, Manatees
Update on Atlantic Unusual Mortality Event
Manatee Mortality Event on East Coast: 2020-2022
2022 Manatee Mortalities
Internship Opportunities
Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force Meeting Information
Harmful Algal Bloom/Red Tide Task Force Members
Bear Research
New Publications
Animal and Reptile Publications
Seagrass Protection and Restoration in St. Joseph Bay
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Through effective research and technical knowledge, we provide
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