Marine metagenomic sequences from Huntington Beach State Park

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and the detrimental impacts they generate, appear to be increasing on a global scale. The purpose of this study is to explore the use of multiple ribosomal primers in providing baseline taxonomic data indicating the diversity of the HAB associated diatom genus, Pseudo-nitzschia in South Carolina coastal waters. These data will provide the basis for developing cost-effective taxonomic assays that target locally relevant Pseudo-nitzschia taxa. The development of such an assay will serve to enhance and support effective management of shellfish harvesting areas by providing rapid and specific information to decision makers determining the level of human health risk at a given location and potentially reducing the number and/or duration of shellfish harvesting closures.