ABOUT

Introduction and research context

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are considered a threat to the environment and human health.

Major concerns are addressed to the increasing occurrence of these natural events in certain regions of the world, partially driven by global warming and anthropogenic pressure. Human illnesses related to the intake of toxin-contaminated seafood have been attributed to these events.

Furthermore, HABs have significant economic impacts on aquaculture and fisheries. HABs can affect species growth, and can lead to species contamination and mortality, leading to huge losses to the industry . The regulation of toxin levels in seafood and other measures (e.g. forced seafood harvesting closures during the occurrence of HABs) is important to prevent human intoxication. On the other hand, the impacts on the industry still lack major mitigation measures.

BlueShellfish consortium aims to bring together specialists from different areas of knowledge who will develop joint research activities, which will collectively contribute to bring innovative solutions to fisheries and aquaculture industries, to mitigate the impact of habs.