Interdisciplinary strategies for the management of harmful algal blooms: prospects & comprehensive review

Abstract

In recent decades, with the continuous development of global climate change and industrialization, the majority of coastal waters globally are experiencing escalating eutrophication, with a concomitant increase in the frequency of harmful algal blooms. The large-scale reproduction or decay of algae will reduce the content of dissolved oxygen in the water, leading to the death of a large number of aquatic animals,and seriously damaging the water ecosystem. Moreover, the algal toxins released by harmful algae can not be ignored. Some algae toxins have obvious and harmful effects even though their cellular concentrations are small. The algae toxins produced by harmful algae are constantly enriched through the food web, ultimately endangering human health.At present, the algae bloom treatment methods are roughly divided into three categories: physical control methods, chemical control methods and biological control methods. However, in governance, there is always a deficiency in a single method, and the comprehensive control strategy combining physical, chemical and biological methods can make up for the deficiency of a single method. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest developments in global harmful algal blooms treatment technologies, assesses the adverse impacts of harmful algal blooms on the environment and human health, and proposes viable integrated management strategies for future harmful algal blooms. We summarize the application of physical, chemical, and biological methods in the treatment of algal blooms and highlight the significance of an interdisciplinary approach in the future management of harmful algal blooms.