Algae Management Expertise

Algae is often used as a broad classification for all aquatic problems when in fact, algae may be one issue where other aquatic plants may also be causing problems.

Algae are a diverse group of organisms which naturally occur in water. They range from unicellular to multicellular forms, such as filamentous algae and are essential in a healthy balanced ecosystem. There are however forms of algae, such as blue green algae which are less desirable due to the toxins which they produce. This can be a major cost in the treatment of drinking water in large reservoirs.

Algal blooms in ponds and lakes are a major problem. They reduce light penetration to other aquatic organisms and can cause sudden crashes in levels of dissolved oxygen in the water. Filamentous Algae, better known as blanket weed, can have major implications on amenity water use where water sports and fishing are involved, causing a major loss in revenue for stake holders.

Algal Density

Algal density is directly related to the amount of available nutrients in the water. Any excess nutrients, not utilised by larger aquatic plants are quickly utilised by algae when conditions are optimal for algal growth. Controlling the amount of available nutrients within a body of water is the key to maintaining a healthy algae balance. However, every lake is unique and a site specific strategy must be produced to address the associated nutrient enrichment problems. EnviroAqua are able to produce long term algae management plans to identify key nutrient enrichment issues across the watershed.