Toxic microalgae in Norwegian waters

ToxANoWa II aims to develop knowledge and methods for monitoring fish-killing algal toxins in Norwegian waters.

ToxANoWa II aims to advance knowledge and develop methods for monitoring fish-toxic algal toxins, such as leadbeaterins, in Norwegian waters. The project builds on the results of the original ToxANoWa project, which investigated why certain microalgae cause fish mortality during harmful algal blooms (HABs). The goals are to identify toxins, understand their effects on fish, and develop improved systems for early warning and monitoring. This will contribute to better fish health and fish welfare, reduced losses in the aquaculture industry, and enhanced preparedness for future harmful algal bloom events.

The project focuses on understanding and investigating several toxic microalgal species that can cause large-scale fish mortality in aquaculture. By combining toxicology, chemistry, and marine biology, ToxANoWa II will generate knowledge that can be applied to practical monitoring and risk assessment.

Scientific work packages:

Characterization of microalgal communities, algal toxins, and metabolomes in field samples from HAB-affected areas
Characterize toxicity, toxins, and metabolomes in cultures of potentially fish-toxic algae from Norwegian waters
Develop and evaluate of potential screening methods for monitoring algae and toxins associated with fish mortality
Investigate toxicity of C. leadbeateri cultures and leadbeaterins in fish and fish gill cells
Produce reference materials