Paralytic shellfish poisoning phycotoxins: Occurrence in South America

This is a review of the regional (South America) harmful algae blooms associated with paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) phycotoxin producers. This review provides a survey of the most relevant recorded events known to have been caused by microalgae that are PSP producers in this region. The geographical distribution of harmful species of PSP phycotoxins producers in sea and inland fresh water are shown. The variation of molluscs toxicity measured by the mouse bioassay, high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection, and analysis by liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy of these PSP phycotoxins in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, and Venezuela is summarized. I hope this review provides reference material suitable for researchers, students, managers, health professionals, and political authorities. Another goal is to stimulate research in this area to answer critical questions to improve our understanding of PSP-producing harmful algal bloom species and the significant effects that they have upon aquatic systems and our lives in this part of the world.