Red Tides

Red tides happen not just along Korea's coast but in many other countries too. They're mainly caused by the overgrowth of dinoflagellates.
The Heterocapsa species, which causes red tides, is causing massive damage to shellfish farming.
To secure and utilize domestic biological resources, our researchers have been discovering new microorganisms in the Geumgang River basin over the past year.
Also, genomic analysis of the new microorganism, Fibrobacter algicolus, revealed genes related to bacteriorhodopsin, which uses light for energy, and anti-red tide substances commonly found in salt-loving bacteria.
This suggests that it could be effectively used to control red tides in seawater and aquaculture farms.
The Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources, working together with businesses, is leading the way to a better future.