Cyanobacteria
Other Common Names: toxic algae
(Cyanobacteria)
Cyanobacteria are toxic bacteria that look like blue green algae: mats of green, blue, brown, or purplish red floating on the water.
Management Options
Click here for more information on how to control Cyanobacteria.
Description
Cyanobacteria are toxic bacteria that look like blue green algae: mats of green, blue, brown, or purplish red floating on the water, especially near the edges. They can also look like a paint spill or oil slick. The only way to be sure cyanobacteria are present is to have the water tested by a lab. Most algae blooms do not contain cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria can be deadly to fish, waterfowl, and other animals, as well as humans.
Location
Cyanobacteria can be found across the United States.
Propagation
spores
Management Options
Click here for more information on how to control Cyanobacteria.