Scientists discover how toxic algae outsmarts nature

New research reveals the molecular mechanism behind harmful algal blooms that threaten water systems worldwide. Beth Ahner, professor in the Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering in the ‪@CornellCALS‬, studies cyanobacteria blooms and has discovered that these organisms produce anti-vitamins that mimic thiamin (Vitamin B1), creating a competitive advantage by slowing the growth of other cells.