A world overview--one-hundred-twenty-seven years of research on toxic cyanobacteria--where do we go from here?

Abstract

CyanoHABs are an intermittent but repeated occurrence throughout the world. They have been documented to impact water quality through production of compounds affecting taste and odor. Selected species within about 40 genera can produce potent toxins that can cause chronic, acute and acute lethal poisonings to wild and domestic animals and humans. Direct and indirect evidence indicates that the incidence, duration and intensity of CyanoHABs is increasing throughout the world, due largely to a decline in the quality of water supplies. While significant effort has gone into defining the chemistry and toxicology of cyanotoxins, a worldwide effort from scientists and environmental agencies to map their occurrence and environmental health risk is needed. An unprioritized listing for those efforts is suggested below (Ramsdell et al. (eds.) 2005): 1. Improved Ability to Detect HAB Species and Analyze CyanoHAB Toxins. 2. Improved Capability for Monitoring and Forecasting CyanoHABs in a Cost Effective and Timely Manner. 3. Improved Protection of Human Health. 4. Improved Protection of Endangered Species and Improved Ecological Health. 5. Improved Prevention and Mitigation Strategies. 6. Improved Economic Cost Estimates of CyanoHAB Events. 7. Improved Economics for Aquaculture and Shellfish Safety. 8. An Educated and Informed Public.