Perth Laboratory - Public Seminar Series 2005

Harmful Algal Blooms: from Molecular Processes to Global Ocean Phenomena

Professor Gustaaf M. Hallegraeff
School of Plant Science, University of Tasmania

Monday 14 November* at 2.00pm, CSIRO Auditorium

Abstract

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) range from harmless water discolourations to species that produce toxins that are potentially fatal to human consumers of seafood products. Since many algal blooms are more or less monospecific, correctly assessing the precise taxonomic identity of the causative organisms is crucial in understanding potential impacts.

HAB species range from marine to brackish to fresh water organisms and cover a broad range of phylogenetic types (dinoflagellates, diatoms, raphidophytes, cyanobacteria). Molecular approaches (notably sequencing of the large subunit rRNA) have been indispensable in redefining HAB species, or detecting and monitoring previously cryptic taxa.

In the past two decades, evidence for an alarming global increase in the frequency, intensity and geographic distribution of HABs has been brought to the attention of international forums such as UNESCO and WHO. Coastal eutrophication, global climate change and ship ballast water discharges are undoubtedly contributing to the increasingly detrimental effects of algal blooms on fisheries, aquaculture, human health, tourism, the marine environment and subsequently even regional economies.

Molecular approaches and satellite monitoring are now providing us with the forensic tools to resolve the key mechanisms responsible for algal blooms, thereby allowing human society to make well-informed decisions on adequate control, management and mitigation strategies.

About the Speaker

Gustaaf Hallegraeff is a Professor of Plant Science with the University of Tasmania in Hobart, Australia. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Amsterdam, Netherlands, D.Sc. from the University of Tasmania and is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering. His main research interests are harmful algal blooms that affect aquaculture industries, their spreading via ships' ballast water and linkages to global environmental changes. He and his collaborators were awarded the 2004 Eureka Prize for Environmental Research. Among his many publications are key books such as the 'Aquaculturists' guide to harmful Australian microalgae', and editorial work on UNESCOs 'Manual on Harmful Marine Microalgae'. In 2005 he was a finalist for Australian of the Year in recognition of his international standing as a leader in his field. You can contact him on Hallegraeff@utas.edu.au.

For further details contact Jackie Walsh (08) 9333 6380
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