What are the potential health risks associated with toxins produced by harmful algal blooms?

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) can produce a variety of toxins that pose significant health risks to both humans and animals. The primary concern is that these toxins can contaminate water sources and affect the food chain, leading to serious health issues. The wide-ranging impacts of these toxins include neurological, liver, and gastrointestinal problems, highlighting the broad spectrum of potential health consequences.

In humans, exposure might occur through drinking contaminated water, recreational activities in affected waters, or consumption of contaminated seafood. In animals, especially marine life, the toxins can lead to similar health detriments, which can subsequently impact humans who consume these animals. Overall, acknowledging the potential health risks to both humans and animals emphasizes the comprehensive threat posed by harmful algal blooms.