North Atlantic right whales, Eubalaena glacialis, exposed to paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins via a zooplankton vector, Calanus finmarchicus

Authors

Edward Durbin, University of Rhode Island
Gregory Teegarden, Saint Joseph's College
Robert Campbell, University of Rhode Island
Allan Cembella, National Research Council Canada
Mark F. Baumgartner, Oregon State University
Bruce R. Mate, Oregon State University

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

10-1-2002

Abstract

The seriously endangered north Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) is regularly exposed to the neurotoxins responsible for paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) through feeding on contaminated zooplankton acting as a vector of these dinoflagellate toxins. This chronic exposure occurs during several months each summer while the whales are present on their late summer feeding ground in Grand Manan Basin in the lower Bay of Fundy. Based on estimated ingestion rates, we suggest that these toxins could affect respiratory capabilities, feeding behavior, and ultimately the reproductive condition of the whale population. © 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Harmful Algae

Volume

1

Issue

3

Citation/Publisher Attribution

Durbin, Edward, Gregory Teegarden, Robert Campbell, Allan Cembella, Mark F. Baumgartner, and Bruce R. Mate. "North Atlantic right whales, Eubalaena glacialis, exposed to paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxins via a zooplankton vector, Calanus finmarchicus." Harmful Algae 1, 3 (2002). doi: 10.1016/S1568-9883(02)00046-X.