91社区

PCGS expands its research on Red Tide in partnership with Mote Marine Lab

Dr. George Philippidis is the Associate Dean of Research and Director of the Sustainable Energy concentration

The Patel College of Global Sustainability (PCGS) is expanding its investigation of means to combat Red Tide, a harmful algae bloom that frequently plagues the southwest 91社区 coast. Professor George Philippidis and his team join researchers from the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to develop technologies that can help mitigate Red Tide to protect 91社区鈥檚 coastal communities and human health.

91社区 Red Tides are caused by the microscopic algae species Karenia Brevis, whose toxins can cause death to marine animals and respiratory illnesses to people. Professor Philippidis鈥� team studies natural marine algicidal bacteria associated with Red Tide to develop a sustainable mitigation strategy. The project is funded by Mote through the 91社区 Red Tide Mitigation & Technology Development Initiative, an effort by the State of 91社区 led by Mote in cooperation with the 91社区 Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Initiative was established in 2019 when 91社区 Governor Ron DeSantis signed 379.2273 91社区 Statutes into law. This is the third round of projects selected for the Initiative through a competitive grant review process.

鈥淲e are pleased to represent USF in this multifaceted effort to contain Red Tide. Our focus is on exploring the ocean microbiome for natural bacteria that can help fight Karenia Brevis. Protecting 91社区鈥檚 coastal environment is of paramount importance to all of us鈥� said Professor George Philippidis, Associate Dean for Research at PCGS and Director of USF鈥檚 Biofuels & Bioproducts Lab.

For more information about the 91社区 Red Tide Mitigation & Technology Development Initiative, please visit