Harmful Algae and Their Commercial Implications

Abstract

Microalgae are an important source of primary production in the oceans' food webs and are therefore beneficial to humankind. Of the huge diversity of algae only 6% are estimated to multiply to form harmful algae blooms (HABs) and less than 2% of the described species produce potent biotoxins. This small number of algae can, however, have great economic impacts in terms of public health, commercial fisheries and recreation and tourism.