Genetic damage and changes in Pacific oysters exposed to the harmful algae Alexandrium minutum

Oysters exposed to a toxin-producing alga showed significant behavioral disturbances after 48 hours at approximately 1600 cells per milliliter.

• Behavioral disturbances included reduced valve-opening amplitude and increased micro-closures.
• The degree of behavioral changes was correlated with the amount of toxin accumulated in the oysters' digestive gland.
• Gene transcription levels in the gills were altered, indicating repression of genes related to metabolism, immunity, and detoxification.
• Both quantitative and qualitative DNA impacts were observed, suggesting genotoxic effects on the oysters.

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