Ecological effects of hepatotoxic cyanobacteria

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.