Toxicity, trophic transfer and persistence of harmful algal toxins and metabolites in shellfish of public health concern. Award period: 09/01/2003 - 08/31/2006; extension to 8/1/2007.

Abstract

This study had three major objectives. The first was to identify the major neurotoxic shellfish poisoning constituents, both algal-produced brevetoxins and shellfish brevetoxin metabolites, in clams and oysters exposed to repeated natural Karenia brevis harmful algal blooms. The second was to determine the relative rates of accumulation and persistence of brevetoxins and brevetoxin metabolites in clams and oysters exposed to these same K. brevis blooms. The third was to assess trophic transfer of brevetoxins and brevetoxin metabolites in whelks preying on contaminated clams and oysters.