HAB Research Groups
HAB scientists use state-of-the-art microscopic and technical
equipment to study the taxonomy, ecology, toxicology, and genetics
of Florida red tide and other harmful algae.
Scientists in the biotoxins laboratory study toxins produced by
phytoplankton. The laboratory is also the official state laboratory
for testing shellfish following a red tide and is the only
FDA-certified laboratory in the state for this analysis.
The FWRI HAB culture collection contains algal species grown and
maintained in the HAB laboratory. These single-species cultures are
used for research by FWRI and other scientists in the United States
and around the world.
The ecology group studies algal species in the laboratory and in
the field. They study how different factors, such as nutritional
requirements, affect relationships between species and their
environment.
HAB scientists use two methods of DNA analysis to study HAB and
non-HAB species. The two methods, genetic analysis and molecular
probe analysis, help distinguish similar species.
The HAB monitoring database was created to consolidate historical
and current Florida red tide sampling information. Data recorded in
the database includes sample location, organism counts, water
quality measurements, and other related data.
Researchers in the HAB imaging department use a variety of
microscopic equipment to examine marine organisms at the cellular
and subcellular levels. Microscopic analysis is used to enumerate,
identify and differentiate similar algal species.
The HAB monitoring program was established to monitor and detect
nuisance, harmful, and toxic algal blooms in Florida. Sample
collection is coordinated with numerous collaborators around the
state.
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