International partnership to tackle red tides in Florida

Danish biotechnology company Sundew ApS has partnered with Mote Marine Laboratory to develop natural solutions for harmful algal blooms (HABs, or Red Tides) using Sundew's marine microbial extract techniques.

Mote, a nonprofit marine research institution located in Florida, US, will fund the project with $121,000 under the Florida Red Tide Mitigation and Technology Development Initiative. This initiative brings together public and private entities to prevent, control, and mitigate red tide impacts on Florida's coastal environments and communities.

Sundew, Mote, and the Bigelow Lab for Ocean Sciences (East Boothbay, Maine) have already demonstrated in previous studies that Sundew's marine microbial extracts can control various species of HABs, including Karenia brevis (K. brevis), rendering them harmless.

"By combining Mote's extensive expertise in marine science with Sundew’s innovative approach, we aim to advance natural, sustainable strategies that protect Florida's coastal ecosystems, marine life, and the communities that depend on them," said Kevin Claridge, VP for Sponsored Research & Coastal Policy Programs.

HABs, commonly known as Harmful Algal Blooms

K. brevis is a single-celled organism belonging to the dinoflagellate taxonomic group, and according to Sundew, it is the most common cause of red tide in Florida. These microorganisms can produce potent neurotoxins harmful to human health and marine life, and contaminate shellfish.

Additionally, when the cells of K. brevis are disrupted by wind or waves, aerosols can be released, causing respiratory irritation in individuals exposed to them.

"The project allows us to apply our natural solution and precision fermentation expertise to address one of Florida's most pressing marine challenges. It is an important part of our mission to use modern biological technologies to solve aquatic ecosystem problems," added Sundew CEO Giovanni Salerno.

From October 19 to 24, 2025, Chile will be the host country of the largest international scientific meeting on (HABs), the 21st International Conference on Harmful Algae (ICHA).