Cyanobacteria in aquatic ecosystems in Serbia: effects on water quality, human health and biodiversity

Abstract

Cyanobacterial blooms and toxins (cyanotoxins) in both natural and controlled waterbodies are of worldwide concern. This paper presents a review of 130 years of research on the biodiversity, occurrence and toxicity of cyanobacteria in waterbodies throughout Serbia, as well as their effects on water quality and human health. Data on the occurrence of particular cyanotoxins over more recent years are also collated. Data from over 70 sources, including research articles, project reports, conference abstracts, dissertations, books, annual and news reports are summarized. This survey provides a valuable resource for current and future assessments of cyanobacterial and cyanotoxin occurrence and abundance in Serbian waterbodies, and for management solutions where ecosystems and human health are jeopardized.