Algae can produce a variety of toxins, each with distinct toxicological profiles. Some of the most common toxins include:
Microcystins: Primarily produced by cyanobacteria, these hepatotoxins can cause liver damage and promote tumor growth. Saxitoxins: Produced by dinoflagellates, these neurotoxins can lead to paralytic shellfish poisoning, impacting both animals and humans. Brevetoxins: Also produced by dinoflagellates, these cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning and can lead to respiratory issues. Anatoxins: Known as "Very Fast Death Factor," these neurotoxins affect the nervous system and can be lethal to animals.
