Algae Control

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are a group of photosynthetic bacteria that are among the oldest organisms on Earth. They are found in a wide range of environments including freshwater, marine, and terrestrial habitats. 

One of the distinctive features of cyanobacteria is their ability to produce oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis, meaning they can produce their own food using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water. This played a crucial role in the development of Earth's atmosphere billions of years ago. 

Cyanobacteria can exist as single cells, colonies, or filaments, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some species can form blooms in bodies of water under certain conditions, leading to water quality issues and potential harm to aquatic ecosystems and human health. 

While cyanobacteria are important contributors to ecosystems and play a role in nitrogen fixation, some species can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and animals if ingested or if there is skin contact. 

Green algae are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms. They are primarily aquatic, although some species can live in terrestrial environments such as damp soil or on the surfaces of trees and rocks. Green algae are known for their green coloration, which is due to the presence of chlorophyll pigments, similar to land plants. 

Green algae can vary greatly in size and complexity, ranging from single-celled organisms to multicellular forms that resemble plants. They can be found in freshwater, saltwater, and moist terrestrial habitats worldwide. 

Like plants, green algae use photosynthesis to produce their own food, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose using sunlight as an energy source. They also release oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis, contributing to the oxygen content of their environments. 

Green algae play important ecological roles as primary producers in aquatic ecosystems, serving as food sources for a variety of organisms including aquatic invertebrates and small fish. They also help to oxygenate water and contribute to nutrient cycling. 

Despite their ecological importance, green algae can also be harmful when they form dense blooms in bodies of water. 

Cyanobacteria and green algae can be harmful to bodies of water under certain conditions due to a phenomenon known as algal blooms.  

Algal blooms occur when these microorganisms reproduce rapidly and accumulate in large numbers, often leading to visible discoloration of the water and sometimes forming thick mats or scums on the surface. 

There are several reasons why cyanobacteria and green algae can become harmful: 

Toxin Production 

Some species of cyanobacteria and green algae can produce toxins known as cyanotoxins and algal toxins, respectively. These toxins can be harmful to humans, pets, and aquatic organisms if ingested or if there is skin contact. Cyanotoxins can cause a range of health problems including skin irritation, gastrointestinal issues, and in severe cases, liver damage or neurological effects. 

Nutrient Pollution 

Cyanobacteria and green algae thrive in nutrient-rich environments, particularly those with high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. Excess nutrients, often originating from agricultural runoff, sewage discharge, or urban stormwater, can promote algal growth and lead to the development of algal blooms. 

Low Dissolved Oxygen 

During the daytime, cyanobacteria and green algae carry out photosynthesis, which generates oxygen as a byproduct. However, at night or when algal blooms die off, microbial decomposition of the organic matter produced by the algae consumes oxygen, leading to depleted oxygen levels in the water. This can result in hypoxic or anoxic conditions, which are harmful to aquatic organisms and can lead to fish kills and other ecological problems. 

Disruption of Ecosystems 

Algal blooms can disrupt aquatic ecosystems by shading out other aquatic plants, reducing biodiversity, and altering habitat structure. They can also impact the availability of food resources for aquatic organisms, leading to changes in community composition and trophic dynamics. 

Algae control methods can vary widely in terms of their safety for the environment. Some algae control methods are considered safe and environmentally friendly, while others may have negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Safe and environmentally friendly algae control methods typically include non-toxic approaches. 

At Photon Water, we use a chemical-free ultrasonic algae elimination process. Unlike some chemical algaecides, ultrasonic algae control does not introduce harmful substances into the environment, making it a more environmentally friendly option for managing algal growth in bodies of water. 

We can provide our algae control solutions to a wide range of clients, including: 

• Councils and water authorities
  
  
• Mining operations
  
  
• Recreational lakes and water bodies
   
• Wineries
  
  
• Agriculture industry and large-scale landowners
  
  
• Water treatment plants with reservoirs or drawing from lakes
  
  
• Environmental consultants