Scientists: 'Game-changing' ozone bubbles could stop red tide

ST. PETERSBURG (FOX 13) - Scientists may have a break-through when it comes to stopping red tide, once and for all.

Dr. Peter Moeller, a scientist with NOAA, says he's tested and help perfected a way to destroy toxic algae blooms, and it's caught the attention of ocean researchers in the Bay Area.

Dr. Moeller has worked with NABAS Group Inc. to develop Nano Ozone Bubble Technology.

“Putting ozone, and putting it into very tiny bubbles as a delivery mechanism is key because Nano Bubbles are so small they do not float to the surface,” Dr. Moeller said.

Dr. Moeller says the nanobubbles act like a time-release pill, staying under the water’s surface and slowly imploding to create an oxygen gas molecule that isn't harmful to humans or wildlife - but kills algae.

"The bubbles also destroy toxins, herbicides, [and] pesticides,” he said.

Dr. Moeller has tested the bubbles in a lab and ponds and says it’s time to take it to the Gulf of Mexico.

Jim Simons, president of the American Marine University, is trying to get the major players who learn how to study and stop red tide, to research and approve nano ozone bubble technology.

"This technology is game-changing,” Simons said. “It needs to be evaluated immediately."

Simon’s made the pitch this week to scientists at the Florida Institute of Oceanography and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. He says they are highly interested in studying the bubbles even more.

"We hope that this technology can be implemented in 90 days,” Simons said.

Researchers at FWC didn't return our phone calls and hope to hear an update in the coming days.