What is a blue-green algae bloom?
Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are an ancient group of algae. Although they are most closely related to other bacteria, they can photosynthesize like green plants. Blue-green algae reproduce rapidly in lakes and ponds with adequate amounts of sunlight, air/water temperature and nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen. Within a few days a clear lake or pond can become cloudy with algae growth. This is called a bloom. Although blue-green algae blooms can create nuisance conditions and undesirable water quality, most blooms are not toxic.
