Can we manage the presence and affects of Harmful Algal Blooms?

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) is a term used to describe a proliferation, or "bloom," of single-celled marine algae called phytoplankton. More commonly known as "red tides," these blooms occur when the algae photosynthesize and multiply. While there are thousands of algae species in existence, only a few dozen are known to be toxic.

Consequently, phytoplankton serve as the base of the marine food web and thus, their impact can be devastating for humans and for other marine flora or fauna in the affected ecosystem. Manatees are one marine animal that have been significantly affected by the presence of HABs.Where do these toxins typically occur? How can we track the presence of these harmful toxins to prevent health, economic, and marine resource losses?

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