The purpose of plotting events on maps is to obtain a global and visual overview of harmful algal bloom (HAB) events for the preceeding ten years.

Information which is plotted on maps includes indication of regular monitoring sites (phytoplankton and/or phycotoxins), and indication of the frequency of harmful events during the last ten years.

Each map represents one type of event, and the different types of events are : DSP, PSP, ASP, NSP, CFP, animal and plant mortality, and cyanobacteria toxicity. The information plotted shows the presence of toxins, or observations of mortality. Blooms of potentially toxic species with non detectable levels of toxicity do not appear on maps.

HAB Events 1990-1999 (pdf)

DISCLAIMER

The information used for the maps is based on yearly national reports by ICES member states. The available information on individual events varies greatly from event to event or country to country. Monitoring intensity, number of monitoring stations, number of samplings, stations, etc. also varies greatly and therefore there is not a direct proportionality between recorded events and actual occurences of e.g., toxicity in a given region. Furthermore, areas with numerous recorded occurrences of HAEs (Harmful Algal Events), but with an efficient monitoring and management programmes, may present a low risk of intoxications, whereas rare HAEs in other areas may cause severe problems and could present significant health risks.

Therefore, these maps should thus be interpreted with caution regarding risk of intoxication by seafood products from the respective areas/regions/countries.

IOC and ICES are not liable for any possible misuse of this information.

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