Algae spotted off some NJ beaches - New Jersey's Home | News, Weather, Sports | WWORTV | My9

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — State environmental officials are monitoring reports of discolored water because of algae off some New Jersey beaches.

Phytoplankton samples are being collected at beaches in Monmouth County after the microscopic plants were spotted around Asbury Park, Avon and Bradley Beach.

The Environmental Protection Department says the plants generally are not harmful to humans. However, heavy concentrations that remove oxygen from the water may be deadly to fish and shellfish.