Lyngbya is a filamentous blue-green (cyanobacteria) algae. It is composed of single cells that are covered by a sheath. There are over 60 species of Lyngbya that occupy fresh, brackish, and marine waters. They thrive in warm water with abundant nutrients. Lyngbya forms large, brown or green colored mats that float to surface and are slimy and emit a foul odor. The dense mat structure does not allow oxygen in so anaerobic bacteria (sulfur producing) can thrive which causes the odor.
Some species of Lyngbya produce volatile organic compounds that can cause a bad taste in fish and water. Lyngbya can also cause eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Contact dermatitis or Swimmer’s Itch has been reported in some warmer climates due to Lyngbya.
No comments:
Post a Comment