Algae

Filamentous Algae

Filamentous algae are a type of Green Algae that grow in long threads or filaments. When growth is excessive, large mats can form that stretch from the river bottom to the surface and cover significant portions of a river reach.

Resources

• Nutrients and Filamentous Algae in West Virginia

  Detailed information pertaining to filamentous algae in West Virginia.

Harmful Algal Blooms

Although many algae blooms are caused by Green Algae, there are some blooms caused by Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae). Some strains of certain species of cyanobacteria are capable of producing toxins. These toxins can affect the liver, nervous system and/or the skin of people, pets, and wildlife. Algae blooms caused by species capable of producing toxins are called Harmful Algal Blooms or HABs.

Resources

• Harmful Algal Blooms

  Further information regarding harmful algal blooms.