How would exposure to saxitoxin from algae cause changes in clams?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Exposure to saxitoxin from algae would not cause mutations in the clam's DNA or increase mutation rates, as saxitoxin is not a mutagen. Clams sensitive to saxitoxin may not necessarily migrate away from the algae bloom as they are filter feeders and may continue to consume the toxin. Clams may not have the ability to deliberately change their transporters to become resistant to saxitoxin. Therefore, the most likely scenario is that saxitoxin would select for existing mutations in the clam population, favoring individuals with mutations that confer resistance or tolerance to the toxin.

How Would Exposure to Saxitoxin from Algae Cause Changes in Clams