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Toxic Alexandrium Treatment in Western Australia: Investigating the Efficacy of Modified Nano Clay
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Toxic Alexandrium Treatment in Western Australia: Investigating the Efficacy of Modified Nano Clay

Cherono Sheilah Kwambai, Houda Ennaceri, Alan J. Lymbery, Damian W. Laird, Jeff Cosgrove and Navid Reza Moheimani
Toxins, Vol.17(10), 495
2025
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Published (Version of Record)CC BY V4.0 Open Access

Abstract

harmful algal blooms Alexandrium spp. modified nano-clays kaolinite socio-economic impacts
Alexandrium spp. blooms produce a range of toxins, including spirolides, goniodomins, and paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs). Of these, PSTs are the most impactful due to their high affinity for voltage-gated sodium ion channels in nerve cell membranes. This interaction can cause neurological effects such as paralysis and, in severe cases, may lead to death. Given the implications of Alexandrium blooms on public health, all mitigation, prevention, and treatment strategies aim to reduce their socioeconomic impacts. However, monitoring harmful algal blooms remains difficult due to confounding influences such as pollution, climate change, and the inherent variability of environmental conditions. These factors can complicate early detection and management efforts, especially as the intensity and frequency of blooms continue to rise, further exacerbating their socioeconomic consequences. This review offers insights into several management approaches to prevent and control Alexandrium blooms, focusing on modified nano-clays as a promising emergency mitigation measure for low-density toxic algal blooms, especially in areas predominantly used for recreational fishing. However, it is recommended that treatment be coupled with monitoring to alleviate reliance on treatment alone. Key Contribution Prevention and control strategies for Alexandrium blooms should consider the specific use of the affected waterway, the carbon footprint associated with modified clay production, and the broader ecological and environmental impacts of clay application. These factors are essential when evaluating the overall efficiency and sustainability of clay-based treatment methods.

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