U.S. researchers work to bring Biscayne Bay back from the brink

Published 2021년 5월 10일

Tridge summary

Biscayne Bay, a popular tourist spot in Miami, faced a severe environmental crisis in August 2020, when a massive fish die-off was followed by an algal bloom. The FIU Institute of Environment quickly responded, using advanced technology and research to investigate the cause. The article highlights the historical human-induced changes to the bay, such as dredging and construction, which have disrupted the flow and caused water quality issues. These problems are exacerbated by agricultural activities, septic tanks, and stormwater runoff, leading to harmful algal blooms and seagrass die-offs. In response, local communities and authorities are collaborating with FIU to develop solutions, including monitoring buoys, reducing sewage leaks, and decreasing fertilizer use. The institute is also developing a real-time monitoring system and educational resources for teachers to raise awareness about the bay's issues.

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Original content

At the southern end of Biscayne Bay, FIU Institute of Environment researcher Piero Gardinali is slicing through the water. A triathlete, Gardinali is used to seeing kayakers and jet skiers zip by him on the surface as he swims toward the Miami Seaquarium. On the shore, sunbathers relax and others play catch with their dogs.Beneath the water, seagrasses sway as if dancing to a beat. Fish, stingrays and even lobsters wander by.But the usually serene bay that serves as a playground for locals and tourists alike would begin sending warning signs about its own health.In August of 2020, hundreds of barracuda, eels, lobsters, pufferfish, toadfish, rays and snook in the northern bay died on a single night, their rotting carcasses bobbing on the water's surface and creating a ...

Source: Phys