Information on Algae - Quick Links

Cyanobacteria are a type of bacteria that obtain their energy by photosynthesis and can therefore manufacture their own food. They are the oldest known fossils, more than 3.5 billion years old. Indeed they are one of the largest and most important groups of bacteria on earth.They are found

in almost all environments.

In aquatic environments, under certain conditions, cyanobacteria

may form dense blooms known as blue green algae. The blooms

of blue green algae may produce toxins that may be poisonous to

humans, animals and render seafood toxic. Even if cyanobacteria

do not produce toxins, blooms can cause water to have an unpleasant

taste and odour. However all blue green algae are contact

irritants which cause conditions ranging from minor irritation to

severe dermatitis. Some cyanobacteria have the ability to produce

gas and they store it in small bubbles within themselves. This

enables them to float to the surface forming a dense mass which

can reduce the aesthetic and recreational value of the water body.

This mass also traps litter and sediment and reduces the holding

capacity of a dam, pond, lake, or reservoir and causes a scum with

a very unpleasant smell.

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Information on Algae - Quick Links

Types of Algae Problems associated with Blue-Green Algae

Types of Algae

Problems associated with Blue-Green Algae