Towards standardized molecular monitoring of HABs: A consensus guide to qPCR
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a growing concern in marine and freshwater ecosystems due to their adverse impacts on human health, aquatic ecosystem functioning, and economic activities. Conventional HAB monitoring based on morphological identification remains important but is often limited by time, resolution, and reliance on expert taxonomists. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) and digital PCR (dPCR) techniques have emerged as powerful molecular tools for the specific, sensitive, high throughput and rapid detection of HAB species. This review, based on a consensus among experts in the field, aims to provide an accessible, practical guide for integrating qPCR and dPCR for current and future HAB monitoring frameworks. Building upon previously published literature reviews with a broader focus, we present the details and specifics of step-by-step approaches of assay design, validation, application in global and regional monitoring programmes, and recommendations for method standardization and future development. This consensus guide provides valuable information to benefit laboratory users, regulatory and monitoring agencies. Detailed information is provided for ∼175 qPCR assays directed at >70 marine and freshwater HAB taxa. Our goal is to bridge the gap between research and operational monitoring, provide a unique, shared perspective of the use of quantitative species-specific molecular methods across applications and world regions.
Source: Harmful Algae
Authors: Uwe John, Dave Clarke, Holly Bowers, Shauna Murray, Antonella Penna, Amna Ashfaq, Karl Blyth Andree, Mathiroopini Andipalagan, Elisa Berdalet, Silvia Casabianca, Catarina Churro, Anette Engesmo, Greta Gaiani, Haifeng Gu, Gonzalo Fuenzalida, Yuxuan Jiang, Bengt Karlson, Kerstin Klemm, Po Teen Lim, Chui Pin Leaw, Satoshi Nagai, Tae Gyu Park, Sirje Sildever, Kirsty Smith, Jacqui Stuart, Mark Van Asten, Dedmer B. Van de Waal, Pengbin Wang, Raffaele Siano
Institutions: Alfred-Wegener-Institut Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Helmholtz Institute for Functional Marine Biodiversity, Marine Institute, Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, University of Technology Sydney, University of Urbino, Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology, Universität Hamburg, Institut de Ciències del Mar, Portuguese Sea and Atmosphere Institute, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Third Institute of Oceanography, Instituto de Fomento Pesquero, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, University of Malaya, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Tallinn University of Technology, Cawthron Institute, Victoria University of Wellington, UNSW Sydney, Netherlands Institute of Ecology, University of Amsterdam, Second Institute of Oceanography, Ifremer
Language: English
Subfield: Environmental Chemistry
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,910
Funder: ArcticNet
OpenAlex ID: W7163163122