- Latin Name: Microcystis spp.
- Latin Family Name: Microcystaceae
- Common Name: Unicellular Blue-Green Algae
- Other Names: Cyanobacteria, blue-green algae
Origin:
Naturally from Africa, but spread to Europe and eventually North America.
Biology:
Cells usually are organized into colonies (large colonies may be viewed with the naked eye) that begin in a spherical shape, but lose their coherence to become perforated or irregularly shaped over time in culture.
Identification:
The protoplast is a light blue-green color, appearing dark or brown due to optical effects of gas-filled vesicles; this can be useful as a distinguishing characteristic when using light microscopy. These vesicles provide the buoyancy necessary for blue-green algae to stay at a level within the water column at which they can obtain optimum light and carbon dioxide levels for rapid growth.
Characteristics Important to Control:
Blue-green algae favors warm temperatures, but its highest growth rates occur at 32°C and its toxicity is highest at 20°C. Growth is limited below 15°C. Water can be diluted to lessen the spread of the bloom, such as with a water quality enhancer. Algaecides, such as Simazine, Calcium Hypochlorite, and Cupricide can be used to control the bloom as well.
