Review on Cyanobacterial Studies in Portugal: Current Impacts and Research Needs

Cyanobacteria have long been associated with harmful effects on humans, animals and aquatic biota. Cyanotoxins are their most toxic metabolite. This review summarizes the current research, impacts future needs in cyanobacterial studies undertaken Portugal, southernmost country of Europe, a recent multiplication cyanotoxicity due to climate change events. Microcystins still prevalent, studied only regulated cyanotoxins Portuguese freshwater systems much like European countries. With development some tools, particularly molecular studies, discovery cylindrospermopsins, anatoxins saxitoxins, both genes toxins, North Center ecosystems our highlight that overall communities facing increased risks exposure uptake cyanotoxins. Research encompass expansion at all aspects uprising these reinforces urgent need increasing frequency surveillance achieve tangible Portugal ultimately implement regulations saxitoxins worldwide.