An overview of diversity, occurrence, genetics and toxin production of bloom-forming Dolichospermum (Anabaena) species

The new genus name Dolichospermum, for most of the planktonic former members of the genus Anabaena, is one of the most ubiquitous bloom-forming cyanobacterial genera. Its dominance and persistence have increased in recent years, due to eutrophication from anthropogenic activities and global climate change. Blooms of Dolichospermum species, with their production of secondary metabolites that commonly include toxins, present a worldwide threat to environmental and public health. In this review, recent advances of the genus Dolichospermum are summarized, including taxonomy, genetics, bloom occurrence, and production of toxin and taste-and-odor compounds. The recent and continuing acquisition of genome sequences is ushering in new methods for monitoring and understanding the factors regulating bloom dynamics.