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.

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.

Cyanobacteria can be deadly to fish, waterfowl, and other animals, as well as humans. 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.

Location

Cyanobacteria can be found across the United States.

Propagation

spores