Algal blooms of the 18th and 19th centuries. (February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, Gerald J.; Daniels, Vincent
• Is Part Of: Toxicon. Volume 142(2018)
• Page Start: 42
• Page End: 44
• Publication Date: 2018-02
• Subjects: Algal blooms -- Historical -- Water meadows -- Agricultural practice; Toxins -- Periodicals; Venom -- Periodicals; 615.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.12.049
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0041-0101

Abstract

Abstract: Algal blooms, including those containing cyanobacteria, are of environmental concern due to the toxicities of some of the constituent microorganisms. This compromises the safety of freshwater causing illness in livestock and humans. We present historical accounts of algal blooms occurring during the 18th and 19th centuries indicating that the advent of intensive farming in the 17th century provided nutrients for promoting harmful algal blooms. Highlights: Anthropogenic algal and cyanobacterial blooms linked to intensive farming have occurred for several centuries. Manuring pastures (water meadows) with animal dung provided the nutrients for algal or cyanobacterial blooms. Accounts of anthropogenic blooms in history are of desiccated blooms ("gossamer") or foaming/slimy waterways. Past farming that provided nutrients for harmful algal blooms warns of the hazards of present agricultural practices.