Question

1.) why are algae important? 2.) what are 2 sources for the nutrients that cause red tide? 3.) explain how red tide got its name. 4.) what does brevetoxin do? 5.) describe 2 ways red tide affects humans.

Explanation:

1. Algae are important as they form the base of the marine food - web and produce oxygen through photosynthesis.
2. Nutrient sources for red - tide causing algae can include agricultural runoff (carrying fertilizers) and sewage discharge, which are rich in nitrogen and phosphorus.
3. Red tide gets its name from the high concentration of certain algae that contain pigments, often giving the water a reddish or brownish hue.
4. Brevetoxin, produced by some red - tide algae, can cause respiratory irritation in humans when aerosolized, and can also contaminate seafood, leading to food - poisoning when consumed.
5. Two ways red tide affects humans: respiratory problems from inhaling aerosolized toxins and food - borne illness from eating contaminated seafood.

Answer:

1. Algae are important for the marine food - web and oxygen production.
2. Agricultural runoff and sewage discharge can be nutrient sources for red - tide causing algae.
3. Red tide is named for the reddish color caused by high concentrations of pigmented algae.
4. Brevetoxin can cause respiratory irritation and food - poisoning.
5. Respiratory problems and food - borne illness are two ways red tide affects humans.