Nitrogen from pollution, natural sources causes growth of toxic algae, study finds
Wednesday, February 6, 2013 - 18:00
in Earth & Climate
Nitrogen in ocean waters fuels the growth of two tiny but toxic phytoplankton species that are harmful to marine life and human health, warns a new study. Researchers found that nitrogen entering the ocean -- whether through natural processes or pollution -- boosts the growth and toxicity of a group of phytoplankton that can cause the human illness amnesic shellfish poisoning.