Phytoplankton can impact human health in multiple ways: 1. Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs): Some species produce toxins that can contaminate water and seafood, leading to illnesses such as paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP), and ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP). 2. Water Quality: Excessive growth of phytoplankton can lead to eutrophication, reducing oxygen levels in water bodies and affecting water quality. This can subsequently affect human populations relying on these water sources. 3. Airborne Toxins: In coastal areas, airborne toxins from HABs can cause respiratory issues for people living nearby.
