Photosynthesis does influence superoxide production in the ichthyotoxic alga Chattonella marina (Raphidophyceae)

The ichthyotoxic flagellate Chattonella marina produces extraordinary levels of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) superoxide, which is partially controlled by electrons donated through photosynthetic electron transfer. We demonstrate that ROS can be significantly reduced using the photosynthesis blocking herbicide DCMU. As superoxide is considered a contributor to the toxicity of C. marina, fish mortality may be more prominent during daylight hours.