Diatoms of North AmericaMarine harmful algal booms (HABS): Pseudonitzschia, domoic acid, and marine birds
Description: This presentation will explore harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the marine environment, focusing on the diatom Pseudo-nitzschia, associated neurotoxin domoic acid, and impacts to marine bird populations. Learn how blooms of this naturally occurring algae can produce toxins that move through the food web, affecting humans, upper trophic levels, and coastal ecosystems. We’ll discuss the environmental conditions that contribute to bloom events, including the roles of nutrients and temperature in the growth and toxicity of Pseudo-nitzschia, and how scientists monitor and forecast blooms. In the second half of the presentation, we will share research on the effects of HAB toxins on marine birds and why these events are becoming an increasing concern in a changing ocean.
Intended Audience: This talk is intended
for anyone interested in learning about harmful algal blooms in the
marine environment; what they are, what we currently know about them,
and how they impact marine life, coastal ecosystems, and human
communities.
