Stuffed Red Tide Algae Replica

How can something this cute be dangerous?

Our Red Tide Algae

This strange-looking stuffed red tide algae is an unusual replica. It is 5 inches round and is made of burgundy and red fabric and has large plastic eyes and wears a sympathetic expression. If you aren't an algae lover, you will be after you own these adorable little fellas. I am not sure you'll want to put it in your tub though! This plush red tide algae toy makes a nice pet, a gift, toy or gag and could work well for a school play or show-and-tell as a school science project. Check out our other aquatic plant toys and gifts.

About Red Tide Algae

Red tide algae is more commonly known as harmful algal bloom or HAB. These plantlike organisms form in the water column and cause a discoloration of the water color, but doesn't always discolor the water red. This plankton bloom is not effected by the tides. The multitude of organisms can cause the depletion of oxygen and this can be harmul to marine animals, especially fish. Red tide is also potentially harmful to human health. Humans can become seriously ill from eating oysters and other shellfish contaminated with red tide toxin.The cause of red tides is controversial. Red tides occur off coasts all over the world and have occurred for thousands of years. Not all red tides have toxins or are harmful.

The Tag on Our Red Tide Says:

FACTS: Red tides occur when environmental conditions allow certain types of algae to multiply so rapidly that they end up tinting the water! (Although algae come in a variety of colors, algal blooms are typically caused by reddish organisms.)

While in many cases blooms are not harmful, Alexandrium tamarense produces a neurotoxin that can kill. Initial symptoms include tingling, numbness, and a burning sensation of the lips and tongue. As the poison progresses, a rash, loss of motor control, behavioral changes, difficulty breathing, and, without treatment, even death can occur.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.