Fluorescence <i>in situ</i> hybridization of <i>Microcystis</i> strains producing microcystin using specific mRNA probes

Abstract

Cyanobacteria producing toxic compounds (cyanotoxins) are present in the environment and in water bodies. Their presence poses a threat on human and animal health. It is thus important to detect, identify and enumerate these toxic Cyanobacteria. Using tyramide signal amplification fluorescence in situ hybridization (TSA-FISH) and specific probes, with confocal laser scanning microscopy, we have specifically detected Microcystis strains producing microcystin toxins. The data presented here might be applied to the monitoring of water bodies at early stages and all along the formation of Microcystis blooms.