Blue green algae again.

[jtj321]

Some advice please.At the lake this morning there was a thick scum of bright green algae at the edge,and bits sort of chopped up algae by the jet ski's which also use the lake after us.
The tri guy that runs/pays for/insures etc the session was unsure of the potential for any health risks,so we couldn't really go in.
The owners of the lake later said the water is regularly tested and was safe.Just wondered really if the algae,green,blue-green or otherwise has any significant risk attached,beyond an unpleasant appearance,and presumably,taste.Thanks.

[Wildswimmer]

Firstly, GREEN "algae" are that - just algae. Blue-green "algae" aren't algae but a symbiote of an alga and bacterium. There are some 22 strains of blue-green cyanobacteria and only two pose any threat. BG forms a foul-smelling scum that makes the water unappealing. If of one of the toxic strains is present the toxins are only released when the organisms die, the main threat is to pets who groom after being in the water. Humans don't usually lick themselves (or each other) down after swimming.

In lakes, a couple of barley bales floating in the water will see off any cyanobacteria.

Wildswimmer Pete

[jtj321]

Thanks Pete-not really a problem for us then.Cheers.

[Dave_G]

Originally Posted by Wildswimmer

Firstly, GREEN "algae" are that - just algae. Blue-green "algae" aren't algae but a symbiote of an alga and bacterium. There are some 22 strains of blue-green cyanobacteria and only two pose any threat. BG forms a foul-smelling scum that makes the water unappealing. If of one of the toxic strains is present the toxins are only released when the organisms die, the main threat is to pets who groom after being in the water. In lakes, a couple of barley bales floating in the water will see off any cyanobacteria.
Wildswimmer Pete

Very useful to know this. Cheers, Pete.

Originally Posted by Wildswimmer

Humans don't usually lick themselves (or each other) down after swimming.Wildswimmer Pete

The mind boggles! Are you sure? Some people behave in a very strange manner these days! lol

[Wildswimmer]

Bales of barley floating in the water release natural chemicals as the barley rots, which deter the growth of cyanobacteria. Barley was extensively used in in the heydays of outdoor swimming to keep the water clear of cyanobacteria - and this in the times well before 'Elf'n'safety hysteria.

Wildswimmer Pete

[zanshin]

Originally Posted by Wildswimmer

Bales of barley floating in the water release natural chemicals as the barley rots, which deter the growth of cyanobacteria. Barley was extensively used in in the heydays of outdoor swimming to keep the water clear of cyanobacteria - and this in the times well before 'Elf'n'safety hysteria.

Wildswimmer Pete

I used to use it in my fish pond - worked great

[Brick]

There were genuine BGA blooms in various lakes in Watermead Park a month or so ago. The blue green colour was most distinctive. And it really stank something awful. Smelling them made me feel sick.