Ambon (ANTARA) - A professor from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science of Pattimura University (Unpatti) is studying the impact of the proliferation of phytoplanktons, or harmful algal blooms (HABs), on the sustainability of fisheries in Maluku.

“HABs have a broad impact on marine ecology, the economy, and the health of coastal communities,” Professor of Aquatic Productivity, Frederika S. Pello, informed in Ambon on Tuesday.

HABs occur when certain phytoplankton populations grow rapidly and produce toxins that can trigger mass die-offs of marine life, damage the respiratory systems of fish, cause nerve paralysis, and lead to the loss of key species in the ecosystem chain.

Their direct effects include declining catch volumes, disruptions to the supply chain, and the closure of fishing or aquaculture areas.

HABs, particularly the consumption of seafood containing marine toxins such as saxitoxin, okadaic acid, and domoic acid, also pose a risk to human health since they can cause serious illnesses such as Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP), Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP), and Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP).

From an environmental perspective, the decomposition of phytoplankton biomass reduces dissolved oxygen levels in the water, creating hypoxic or even anoxic zones that threaten aquatic life.

Prof. Pello emphasized the need for holistic and adaptive fisheries management, including strengthening research and monitoring capacity through the identification of harmful phytoplankton species and the development of early detection systems.

She also highlighted the importance of developing mitigation and adaptation measures such as biocontrol technologies, filtration systems, toxin adsorbents (materials that bind and remove toxins); community empowerment through income diversification; and the cultivation of species more resilient to environmental stress.

Raising awareness among coastal communities about the dangers of HABs, the importance of maintaining water sanitation, and avoiding contaminated seafood is equally essential.

In addition, cross-sectoral collaboration involving academia, government, the fisheries industry, and civil society is needed to create evidence-based policies and strengthen regional monitoring networks.

“Controlling HABs requires synergy from all parties to ensure the sustainability of Maluku’s fisheries and safeguard marine food security for future generations,” she stressed.

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