Use of molecular markers for early warning detection of harmful algal blooms

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are a biological hazard for, and can also result from, aquaculture. To minimise economic and environmental impacts, an early warning detection system is needed. In this paper, two most commonly used molecular techniques are introduced with applications and examples involving work on the putatively toxic dinoflagellate Pfiesteria piscicida. Unlike previous reviews giving comprehensive accounts of the detection of HABs, this paper focuses on the technical aspects of the methods in an attempt to provide information potentially helpful for those who have little or no prior experience in molecular techniques but wish to apply these techniques to species of their interest.