First detection of pectenotoxin-2 in shellfish associated with an intense spring bloom of Dinophysis acuminata on the central Chilean coast

Abstract

Diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) toxins and pectenotoxins (PTX) produced by endemic species of the genus Dinophysis, mainly D. acuta and D. acuminata, pose a big threat to public health, artisanal fisheries and the aquaculture industry in Southern Chile. This work reports the first detection of lipophilic toxins, including pectenotoxin-2 (PTX-2) and gymnodimine-A (GYM-A), in hard razor clam (Tagelus dombeii) associated with an unprecedented spring bloom -38.4 × 10³ cells L^-1 in integrated hose sampler (0-10 m) - of Dinophysis acuminata in coastal waters of central Chile. The socio-economic challenges to small-scale fisheries are discussed. The study points to the pressing need for sound policies to face unexpected HAB event, probably due to biogeographical expansions, with a focus on fisheries management, participation of stakeholders, and development of adaptive capacities.

Keywords: Dinophysis acuminata; HAB geographical expansion; Lipophilic toxins; Pectenotoxin-2; Spring bloom.