Harmful algal blooms and shellfish in the marine environment: an overview of the main molluscan responses, toxin dynamics, and risks for human health

Besides human health risks, phycotoxins may cause physiological injuries on molluscan shellfish and, consequently, damages to marine ecosystems and global fisheries production. In this way, this review aimed to present an overview of HABs impacts on marine shellfish by evaluating the effects of cultivated molluscs exposure to microalgae and cyanobacteria that form blooms and/or synthesize toxins. More specifically, it was assessed the main molluscan shellfish responses to harmful algae, trophic transfer and dynamics of phycotoxins, and the risks for human health. Of the 2420 results obtained from literature search, 150 scientific publications were selected after thorough inspections for subject adherence. In total, 70 molluscan species and 37 taxa of harmful algae were assessed from retrieved scientific publications. A significant positive correlation was found between the marine production of molluscs and the number of available studies by molluscan category. Molluscan responses to HABs and phycotoxins were categorized and discussed in three sub-sections: effects on grazing and behavior, metabolic and physiological reactions, and fitness consequences. The main histopathological injuries and toxin concentrations in molluscan tissues were also compiled and discussed. Bivalves often accumulate more toxins than gastropods and cephalopods, occasionally exceeding recommended levels for safe consumption, representing a risk for human health. Harmful algae impact on molluscan shellfish are complex to trace and predict; however, considering the perspective of increase in the occurrence and intensity of HABs, the intensification of efforts to expand the knowledge about HABs impacts on marine molluscs is crucial to mitigate the damages on economy and human health.

Automated summary

This review evaluates the impact of harmful algae on marine shellfish, focusing on the responses of molluscan species to harmful algal blooms and phycotoxins. The study categorizes molluscan responses into effects on grazing and behavior, metabolic and physiological reactions, and fitness consequences. Results show a positive correlation between molluscan production and the number of available studies, with bivalves often accumulating more toxins and posing risks to human health.