Harmful Algal Blooms: Effect on Coastal Marine Ecosystems

Neves, Raquel A. F.; Rodrigues, Elsa T.

doi:10.1007/978-3-319-71064-8_24-1

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…The empirical evidence (albeit limited) of the impacts of brown seaweeds of genus Sargassum (phylum Phaeophyta) points to reduced human access to coastal waters, and negatively affected fisheries, fishery-related and tourism sectors [19,24]. There is some evidence that people affected by these events can suffer food insecurity, economic losses, and experience health impacts, such as skin irritation and respiratory problems [25,26], especially those in poor coastal communities (largely in the global south) dependent directly or indirectly on healthy marine ecosystems [27]. On the positive side, there is evidence of exploitation of brown algae in aquaculture, and as a source of soil amelioration for agriculture [28][29][30].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Brown algae invasions and bloom events need routine monitoring for effective adaptation

Almela,

Tompkins,

Dash

et al. 2023

Environ. Res. Lett.

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Brown algae blooms and invasions have affected 29% of the Earth’s coast, yet there is sparse evidence of the impacts and adaptations of these events. Through a systematic review of empirical literature on these blooms and invasions, we explore the prevalence of conventional analyses of environmental, economic, and social impacts, as well as opportunities for adaptation and valorisation. The study reveals crucial inconsistencies in the current evidence base on algae impacts: fragmented metrics for quantifying blooms and their effects; inconsistent application and testing of prevention measures (e.g. forecasting, early warning systems); reliance on removal as a management approach with limited evidence of associated costs; and scant evidence of the effectiveness of impact mitigation or adaptation strategies. With a focus on economic and societal dimensions of algae events, we introduce emerging opportunities within the blue economy for bloom utilization. The findings highlight the crucial need for harmonized monitoring protocols, robust cost-benefit analysis of management and adaptation options, and evidence of pathways to valorisation of algae biomass.

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