PHYTOPLANKTON TOXINS IN THE CENTRAL ADRIATIC-SEA

Toxin analysis of shellfish from the Central Adriatic Sea, for which n o previous studies exist, have been carried out. Investigations, using the bio-assay and HPLC-directed analysis, led to identification of th e toxins responsible for diarrheic shellfish poisoning (DSP). Okadaic acid (OA), a C-38 polyether fatty acid derivative, and its 35-methyl d erivative dinophysistoxin-1 (DTX-1) were identified as the principal t oxin components. DSP toxins were detected in mussels sampled in the Ka stela Bay. Results are presented along with the phytoplankton structur e during the outbreak of DSP toxicity.