Question

Are diatoms harmful to humans?

Answer 1

Diatoms

1. Diatoms are included under Chrysophytes of the Protista kingdom.
2. They are found in freshwater as well as in marine water.
3. Excessive growth of algae in a water body due to the presence of phosphorous and nitrogen is termed algal bloom. This deprived the aquatic organisms of light and oxygen.
4. Toxins released by the diatoms if consumed by humans are very harmful.
5. Diatoms of the genus Pseudo-nitzschia release domoic acid, a neurotoxin that targets the glutamate receptors. This causes amnesic shellfish poisoning causing short-term memory loss.