Ecological effects of hepatotoxic cyanobacteria

T. Lindholm*, J. E. Eriksson, M. Reinikainen, J. A. O. Meriluoto

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

14 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Many species of cyanobacteria produce hepatotoxic peptides called microcystins. Toxic cyanobacteria have caused fish, wildlife, and cattle mortality in many countries, but the distribution and fate of toxins and their ecological effects are poorly known. Toxic cyanobacteria may affect sensitive organisms and populations, but also fundamental ecological processes, e.g., primary production and microbial activity. Many studies show negative effects of cyanobacteria on zooplankton, but information on the type and quantity of toxin(s) involved is usually missing. Mussels accumulate peptide toxins but accumulation in other organisms remains to be studied. Cyanobacterial blooms often affect the littoral zones, which are important reproduction and feeding areas for fish and birds.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)87-93
Number of pages7
JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Water Quality
Volume7
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 1992
MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

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