Ros Response of the Toxic Dinoflagellate Alexandrium Monilatum on three Ecologically Important Shellfish Species

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are becoming an increasing problem to human health and environment (including effects on natural and cultured resources, tourism and ecosystems) all over the world. There are about 70 species of planktonic and non-planktonic microalgae considered harmful in world wide coasts. The most important toxin-producing species are the dinoflagellates Alaxandrium monilatum, Gymnodinium catenatum and Pyrodinium bahamense var. compressum, in the world, and consequently the poisonings documented in india are Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) and Neurotoxic Shellfish Poisoning (NSP). Toxic A. monilatum produces endotoxins with hemolytic and neurotoxic properties, and has been linked to major fish and invertebrate kills. The responses of three ecologically important shellfish species to A. monilatum (toxic strain AMO3) were experimentally assessed. In the first set of experiments, grazing studies were conducted with adult and juvenile eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica Gmelin), northern quahogs (Mercenaria mercenaria Linnaeus), and green mussels (Perna viridis Linnaeus), which inhabit areas where A. monilatum blooms occur. The type of phytoplankton and epiphytic microalgae, their toxins and harmful effects as well as current methodology used to study these phenomena are presented in this paper. As an experienced group of workers, we include descriptions of monitoring and mitigation programs, our proposals for collaborative projects and perspectives on future research.