CONICET | Buscador de Institutos y Recursos Humanos

Toxic cyanobacterial blooms are a serious water quality issue in many countries. Argentina has a dense hydrographic network formed by rivers, streams, lagoons, lakes and shallow lakes. Cyanobacterial blooms have been registered in Argentina since 1944. However, since the 80?s, these episodes have increased throughout the country, directly affecting the water quality. Argentinean freshwaters are not monitored at the national level and there are no specific regulations concerning cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins. In this work, we examined published information on the occurrence of cyanobacterial blooms and cyanotoxins. Data from 69 impacted water bodies, used for recreational activities or as drinking water supplies, were obtained from regional and international journals. One case of human poisoning and many poisoning and death of animals were attributed to cyanobacterial blooms. Problems with bad odors generated by volatile compounds were also reported. The most frequently occurring genus was Microcystis (4 potentially toxic species), followed by Dolichospermum (at least 5 potentially toxic species), Cylindrospermopsis and Planktothrix (1 potentially toxic species, each). Although the Microcystins were the most common toxins reported. Saxitoxins were also detected, associated with Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii blooms. Surveys on the occurrence of cyanobacterial blooms were found to be carried out regularly whereas cyanobacterial toxin concentrations are not routinely monitored. Information here compiled clearly indicates that toxic cyanobacterial blooms in Argentinean waters present a potential hazard for both humans and wild?life. The presented data is a very important tool to encourage the generation of risk management frameworks at a national level.