A critical review on control methods for harmful algal blooms

Abstract The impacts of harmful algal blooms on human health, tourism, fisheries and ecosystems have increased in recent decades. Eutrophication and the feared climate change are believed to further challenge authorities and those whose activity depends on coastal resources. While in most of the affected countries, regulatory steps have been taken to protect consumers of contaminated food, there has been an unequal focus on management systems. Some countries such as EEUU and Canada have focused on monitoring and prediction programs, whereas others (e.g. Korea, China) have relied on direct control of blooms in the sea. Here, we review current control methods for HAB s including their fundamentals and the last scientific advances. A thorough revision of all considered approaches so far has been included. Ecological studies of the impact of the countermeasures were also considered.