Harmful Algal and Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms in the Arabian Seas: Current Status, Implications, and Future Directions

Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) and Cyanobacterial Algal Bloom (CyanoHAB) events, pose a threat to ecosystem and human health, and their environmental management requires the formulation of shared specific action plans. In this chapter, we compile historical and current knowledge on the causes and consequences of bloom events and report instituted policies and regulations, with a focus on the geographic area of the Arabian Seas. We outline the organismal diversity involved in such blooms as well as the diverse toxins that they can produce with associated syndromes and diseases. The causes of HABs and CyanoHABs can be broadly divided into those that are climatically driven versus those that are driven by anthropogenic activities that over exploit and mismanage natural resources to meet the demands of a growing global population. We consider climatic conditions that affect blooms such as dust and wind storms, seawater salinity and temperature, as well as the effect of anthropogenic activities including industrial development, the transportation of goods, production of aquatic food, and the preparation of drinking water supplies. The major negative health, ecological, and financial impacts of blooms are also presented here. We conclude the chapter pinpointing gaps in current knowledge, policy, and management of HABs and CyanoHABs, and offer specific recommendations on how to improve monitoring, use research-based solutions, and make cooperation across boundaries more effective.