Tampa Bay, Florida – Scientists from the University of South Florida’s College of Marine Science are leading a groundbreaking research project to uncover what contaminants are affecting Tampa Bay’s most popular fish species, including snook, redfish, spotted seatrout, and sheepshead.
As part of the Tampa Bay Surveillance Project, researchers have already sampled over 680 fish across the bay’s vast 400-square-mile estuary. These fish are being tested for a range of harmful pollutants such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and persistent “forever chemicals” that may pose risks to both marine ecosystems and human health.
Why Scientists Are Studying Tampa Bay’s Inshore Fish
The study targets inshore fish species commonly caught and consumed by local anglers. “Tampa Bay is one of the major fishing hubs in western Florida and the Gulf of Mexico,” said Dr. Steve Murawski, an oceanography professor and the project’s principal investigator. “If there are threats to the safety of eating these fish, we need to understand them.”
Top predators like snook and redfish may accumulate toxic chemicals over time, which can then be passed on to humans who consume them. “Ultimately, the top predator is people,” Murawski emphasized, underlining the importance of this research in assessing seafood safety and public health.
Partnering with Local Fishing Experts
To collect fish samples, USF researchers have teamed up with some of the region’s leading recreational fishing captains. One of them is Captain Matt Santiago, who has fished in Tampa Bay since childhood. “Our industry depends on clean, sustainable water,” Santiago said. “Gathering data on these contaminants is critical.”
Mapping Pollution Across Tampa Bay
By sampling fish from different segments of the bay, researchers aim to track pollution hotspots. For instance, elevated levels of pharmaceuticals in fish from northern Tampa Bay could indicate wastewater contamination, while pesticide-laden fish near agricultural zones may suggest runoff issues from nearby farms.
“This isn’t just an environmental indicator—it’s Florida’s largest open-water estuary,” Murawski said. “We need to identify pollutant sources to help inform policy and conservation.”
In-Depth Laboratory Analysis and Risk Assessment
Once fish are caught, they’re taken to USF’s marine science lab in St. Petersburg. There, scientists dissect specimens and analyze them using advanced tools like mass spectrometers. This equipment allows researchers to detect trace levels of chemical contaminants in tissues and organs.
One key sample collected is the otolith, or ear bone, which provides data on the fish’s age and growth rate—similar to counting tree rings.
In addition to analyzing fish tissue, researchers are conducting a three-year community survey to understand local seafood consumption habits. This will help scientists develop health risk assessments and offer guidance on safe fish consumption for people who rely on Tampa Bay’s fisheries.
A Long-Term Commitment to Conservation
Now in its second year, the five-year project aims to catch and analyze nearly 1,000 fish annually across six geographic zones. Fieldwork is constant, with multiple trips per week yielding rich data for researchers like Alexandra Lee, a marine conservation graduate student. “Being in the field so often has been a great opportunity,” Lee shared. “It helps connect our lab work to the real-world impacts.”
Some areas of study include Egmont Key, Manbirtee Key, and even restricted waters near MacDill Air Force Base, providing a rare glimpse into less-disturbed marine environments.
Looking Ahead: What the Research Means for Florida
The findings from this extensive study are expected to influence future environmental regulations, public health recommendations, and conservation strategies. By identifying chemical threats in Tampa Bay’s fish populations, USF’s team hopes to drive actionable solutions for cleaner water and safer seafood.
“We’re not just studying fish—we’re educating the public and protecting human health,” said Lee. “People deserve to know what’s in the fish they eat.”