The Spatial Characteristics of Harmful Algal Blooms in the Gulf of Mexico

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are massive blooms of algae that can cause harmful affects on the ecosystem, including human interactions. This study analyzes the HAB events in the Gulf of Mexico, specifically around the Sarasota, Florida area, from the years 2000 to 2020. Using the geographic information system (GIS), spatial and temporal analyses were conducted to compare the change in density and frequency of HAB events of each year. Possible sources of these HAB occurrences include the agricultural runoff surrounding Lake Okeechobee. Lastly, the negative impacts associated with large HAB were assessed based on proximity to densely populated areas along the coast.