Creation of PHYCOTOX Research Network
This network has been created, in a first instance as a research network (GdR) aimed at regrouping French research groups. However, from the outset strong European and international links will be sought. In order to maximise the effect of this network, we adopted a structure that favors inter- and transdisciplinary approaches combing exact sciences (maths, physics and chemistry), life sciences (biology, ecology and toxicology) as well as human and social sciences (economy, geography and risk evaluation). Hence, we anticipate this network to address three main societal domains:
i) improved comprehension of the sanitary health risk posed by marine algal toxins
ii) evaluation of the impact of toxic algae on marine and coastal ecosystem services
iii) quantifying the socio-economic risks associated with toxic algae
To achieve these objectives, the network has been constructed around five research themes: :
- Identification and characterisation of algal toxins
- Ecology, diversity and physiology of HABs and implications in toxin production
- Impact and transfer of phycotoxins in marine ecosystems and food webs
- Sanitary impacts and risk evaluation
- Socio-economic impacts