This is microscopic algae that float in the water column, that grow very quickly. A bloom of the algae causes the water to become colored and can look green, blue, or reddish. Severe blooms often resemble pea soup or you may see a paint-like scum on shorelines. Concern: Planktonic algae is good for water bodies…
This is commonly referred to as “pond scum”. It has a thread like appearance and often forms surface mats. Growth begins at the bottom of shallow water or on structures in the water and rises to the surface as oxygen becomes trapped by the filaments. Concern: Algae blooms have been a major factor in fish…
This is an advanced form of algae often mistaken as a submerged flowering plant. It is often called muskgrass or skunkweed because of its foul odor. It is a gray-green color, has no flowers and will not extend above the water surface. It has a grainy or crunchy texture and cylindrical whorled branches with 6-16…
It is most often blue-green in color, but can also be blue, green, reddish-purple, or brown. It generally grows in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams when the water is warm and enriched with nutrients. Concerns: Discolored water, reduced light penetration, taste and odor problems, dissolved oxygen depletions during die-off, and toxin production. Due to oxygen…