Physiological responses and adaptive mechanisms of the harmful algal bloom species Heterosigma akashiwo to naphthalene exposure.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), especially naphthalene (Nap), pose a significant threat to coastal ecosystems and may contribute to the occurrence of harmful algal blooms (HABs). However, the response mechanisms of HAB species to PAH pollution remain unclear. This study investigated the physiological and molecular responses of the HAB species Heterosigma akashiwo to varying Nap concentrations.