Toxic blue-green algal blooms in Europe; a growing problem

Several species of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) in saline and fresh waters produce toxins which cause illness or death to domestic animals, birds and fish. Human poisonings are infrequent, but contact with waters containing growths (blooms) of these toxic organisms is increasing. The extent of this hazard in Europe has been surveyed and the presence of toxic blooms has been found to be greater than previously estimated. This article reviews the current understanding of blue-green algal toxicity, identifies the gaps in this knowledge and recommends areas for future studies.