Several cyanobacterial species can produce powerful toxins that provide
a serious threat for water quality, other aquatic organisms, and human
health. These harmful cyanobacteria are especially prominent in
freshwater ecosystems, and are a major concern for water managers.
From a scientific perspective, there are many recent advances in this
research area:
- Owing to the scientific revolution in genomics, new molecular
techniques have been developed that enable the detection of toxic
cyanobacteria at a very early stage.
- New laboratory culture techniques have enabled eco-physiological
studies of toxin production at a detailed scale that was beyond reach
until recently.
- Remote sensing of freshwater cyanobacteria is a rapidly expanding
field, owing to the increased spectral resolution of airborne data.
- New computational techniques have led to advanced models on the
population dynamics of cyanobacteria.
From a management perspective, recognition of the toxins produced by
harmful cyanobacteria has recently led to new environmental policies
with respect to toxic cyanobacteria in many western countries.
The purpose of this work is to provide an up-to-date overview of the
advances in our knowledge of harmful cyanobacteria. The work is directed
towards graduate students and scientists in aquatic microbiology,
aquatic ecology, environmental toxicology, and water management, and
academic professionals in water management and environmental policy.
"This is an outstanding volume that should be a 'must-see' reference for
all scientists and environmental professionals who are interested in
cyanobacterial ecology and water quality management." Val H. Smith,
University of Kansas, USA
