Harmful Algal Bloom Detection

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are a concern around the world; from the oceans to our rivers, lakes and ponds. There are many types of HABs, caused by a variety of algal groups with different toxins. The HABs in fresh and marine waters are usually very different, but they overlap in low salinity estuaries (places where rivers meet the sea). Human illnesses caused by HABs, albeit rare, can be debilitating or even fatal. Many countries now have monitoring programs to ensure that commercially harvested fish and shellfish are safe to eat and their rivers are safe.

HABs have been reported in many countries around the globe, and with global warming and human activity into the marine environment, their occurrence may be on the rise. HABs are an international concern because they affect not only the health of people and marine ecosystems, but also the "health" of local and regional economies.