Growth dynamics and domoic acid production of Pseudo-nitzschia sp. in response to oil and dispersant exposure

•Exposure to oil did not inhibit growth rates but did impose a lag phase.•Addition of dispersant caused a significant decline in growth rate.•Overall photosynthetic performance was not affected in any treatment.•More toxin was detected per cell in the presence of oil and/or dispersants.•Presence of dispersant resulted in domoic acid leaking out of cells.