Gonyaulax is a genus of marine dinoflagellates. Under favorable environmental conditions, these organisms undergo rapid multiplication (population explosion), leading to a phenomenon known as "Red Tide”. During these blooms, the high concentration of pigmented cells discolors the water, making the surface of the sea appear red or reddish-brown. These organisms also release potent toxins (such as saxitoxin) that can be harmful or even lethal to marine fauna like fish.

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