Most recently, the issue of blue-green algaes and their impact has hit the news. DOH has issued health advisories recommending that affected fish species caught water systems contaminated with mercury should not be eaten more than once per week by adults and not more than once per month by pregnant women, nursing mothers, women who intend to have children, and children under 15 years of age. See DOH's water toxicity pages for more background information. These recommendations are based on a portion size of approximately one-half pound of fish. In addition to the limited consumption advisories, DOH recommends that fish caught in certain parts of the Everglades should never be eaten .
Many water bodies have fish with low levels of mercury, and no limitations on consumption.
Listed below are Florida's fresh water bodies that have been tested for mercury in fish, and their health advisory status. All species of fish from the following areas are safe for unrestricted consumption. Limited Consumption of Fish Adults should limit consumption to 1 meal per week. Nursing or pregnant women and children should limit consumption to 1 meal per month. Fish affected are largemouth bass, bowfin and gar unless otherwise noted.