Red Tide Closes Shellfish Harvest

For the second time in 2005 Cedar Key clam harvesting has been postponed as a result of red tide. Red Tide is a bloom of marine flagellate protozoans that when ingested by shellfish makes the shellfish meat unsafe for human consumption.

According to Leslie Sturmer, University of Florida Extension Mariculturist, the next sampling of water and shellfish meat will occur November 7. Analysis of the samples will be completed later in the week to determine reopening of shellfish harvest.

Shellfish harvesters and the general public can get information of reopening by calling 352-543-5181 for a recorded message.