Portuguese coast

Concentration of phycotoxins in biota; Phytoplankton growth; Phytoplankton taxonomic volume in water bodies; Phytoplankton taxonomic abundance in water bodies; Phytoplankton taxonomic biomass in water bodies

High performance liquid chromatographs

Some unicellular algae, namely some marine dinoflagellates, can produce toxic metabolites usually named 'Marine bio toxins'. Occasionally, due to modifications of environmental conditions, they may undergo a rapid population increase. Toxins from algae blooms can be transmitted and accumulated along marine food chain. For this reason, 'Marine Bio toxins' represent a very severe health hazard for humans. For a public health protection programme the identification of dinoflagellate species as primary sources of toxins is extremely important. The aim function of LME is to study in detail the conditions of production of PSP (Paralytic Shellfish Toxins) a potent neuro toxin by some species of dinoflagellates maintained in culture. As more information is obtained, data set is continuously updated. Some data have been published. Species maintained in collection may be obtained by special arrangement - contact Dr. S. Franca.

National Health Laboratory, Laboratory of Experimental Microbiology
Instituto Nacional Saude Av. Padre Cruz
Lisboa
Lisboa
1649-016
Portugal