Global Ecology and Oceanography of Harmful Algal Blooms

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are increasing in frequency,duration,and geographic range due to human activities and climate change. The GEOHAB program promotes international collaboration to understand HAB population dynamics and improve prediction. This volume introduces the program's framework, factors contributing to global expansion, complexities in different habitats, and future challenges.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 461 pages
\n Publication date: 31 May 2018
\n Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG
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Harmful algal blooms (HABs) have emerged as a significant environmental concern, with increasing occurrences, broader geographic distribution, and prolonged duration compared to past decades. These blooms, characterized by their detrimental effects on fish populations, seafood contamination with toxins, and potential impacts on human and ecological health, have significant economic consequences for local communities. The expansion of HABs is primarily driven by human activities, including heightened nutrient inputs and various manifestations of climate change. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Global Ecology and Oceanography of Harmful Algal Blooms (GEOHAB) programme was established with the aim of fostering international collaboration to enhance our understanding of HAB population dynamics across diverse oceanographic regimes and improve the prediction of HAB occurrences.

This comprehensive volume serves as an introduction to the GEOHAB programme, providing insights into the factors contributing to the global expansion of harmful algal blooms, the complexities associated with these blooms in different habitats, and the critical challenges that the next generation of GEOHAB, GlobalHAB, will address. The GEOHAB programme assembled an international team of contributing scientists and ecosystem managers, whose collective efforts will undoubtedly yield substantial benefits to the international research community.

By addressing the underlying causes of HAB expansion, such as nutrient pollution and climate change, we can work towards mitigating the harmful impacts of these blooms on ecosystems, fisheries, and human health. This requires a coordinated global effort, involving policymakers, scientists, and local communities, to implement effective management strategies, promote sustainable practices, and enhance monitoring and research efforts.

In conclusion, harmful algal blooms represent a growing threat to marine ecosystems and human well-being. The GEOHAB programme's commitment to international collaboration and the publication of this volume serve as important steps towards understanding and addressing these challenges. By working together, we can strive to mitigate the impacts of HABs and preserve the health and sustainability of our oceans for future generations.

\n Weight: 886g\n
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 33 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9783319700687\n
Edition number: 1st ed. 2018\n