Physiology, Molecular Ecology
Each species of algae behaves differently and has different bloom triggers and toxins. Accurate species identification is fundamental to effective
HAB response and management. We are applying our expertise in algae taxonomy, morphology, and genetic fingerprinting to develop effective, inexpensive tests for HAB detection and identification.
For example, several species of the alga Gambierdiscus cause ciguatera fish poisoning in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico. The toxin can't be cooked out of the fish, and we don't yet have a test for toxins in the flesh, so monitoring the reef for elevated numbers of Gambierdiscus cells is the only way to ensure safe seafood. The fast, accurate, and cost effective identification protocols we develop protect lives and livelihoods.