Physiological and Transcriptomic Response of Asiatic Hard Clam Meretrix meretrix to the Harmful Alga Heterosigma akashiwo

The ichthyotoxic raphidophyte Heterosigma akashiwo is associated with harmful algal blooms (HABs). Although the influence of H. on fish has been reported, little known its effects other marine organisms, such as shellfish. In this study, physiological and transcriptomic responses Asiatic hard clam Meretrix meretrix to were investigated. results showed that survival was not influenced by (at a concentration 2 × 104 cells/mL), M. eliminated alga effectively after 48 h in co-culture. did alter antioxidant capacity clams. However, 544 unigenes found be differentially expressed between control akashiwo-treated Interestingly, significant up-regulation lysosome-related genes transport proteins suggested remodeling metabolism possibly for digestion akashiwo. summary, our indicate can feed akashiwo, intensification shellfish farming may helpful mitigate blooms.