Algal Blooms

Scientists at the University of Michigan have pinpointed Dolichospermum, a type of cyanobacteria, as the organism producing dangerous saxitoxins in Lake Erie's harmful algal blooms. Using genome sequencing, they found that only certain strains generate the potent neurotoxins, with warmer waters and low ammonium levels potentially favoring their growth. This discovery could improve monitoring and management of blooms amid climate change.