Classification of Toxic Cyanobacterial Blooms by Fourier-Transform Infrared Technology (FTIR)

Abstract

Cyanobacteria are gram-negative photosynthetic bacteria capable of producing toxins responsible for morbidity and mortality in humans and domestic animals. They are capable of forming concentrated blooms, referred to as harmful algal blooms (HABs). Characterization of HABs is necessary to reduce risks from human and animal exposures to toxins. Current methods used to classify cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins have limitations related to time, analyst skills, and cost. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) is a potential tool for rapid, robust cyanobacterial classification that is not limited by these factors. To examine the practicality of this method, library screening with default software algorithms was performed on HAB samples, followed by principle component cluster analyses and dendrogram analysis of samples meeting minimum quality requirements. Two tested spectrometers and software packages were successful at distinguishing cyanobacteria from green algae. Principle component cluster analysis and dendrogram analysis also resulted in clear differentiation between cyanobacteria and green algae. While these methods cannot be used independently to fully characterize HABs, they show the potential and practicality of FTIR as a screening tool.