ALGAE IDENTIFICATION
DESCRIPTION
HARMFUL ALGAE SCREEN
Unsure if your water body has potentially harmful algae species present? This service includes a microscopic evaluation to test for presence/absence of potential toxin-producing blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). If toxin producers are detected the identification of the genus (and species if possible) will be provided. Laboratory staff will follow if your sample has a positive ID for harmful algae you will be contacted so recreation can be limited and toxin testing can be performed if desired.
IDEAL FOR: Detection of HAB species.
QUALITATIVE ALGAL IDENTIFICATION
All different kinds of algae can cause nuisance blooms, smells, or coloration to your water body. This service includes a microscopic evaluation that includes all present taxonomic classes of algae and cyanobacteria present in a water sample to the genus level. Examples of the classes of algae you may have in your water body are green algae (Chlorophyceae), blue-green algae (Cyanophyceae), diatoms (Bacillariophyceae), cryptomonads (Cryptophyceae), golden algae (Chrysophyceae), euglenoids (Euglenophyceae), and Dinoflagellates (Dinophyceae).
IDEAL FOR: Establishing baseline data for algal assemblages.
TOTAL ALGAL IDENTIFICATION AND ENUMERATION
This service includes a microscopic evaluation to identify and enumerate cell density of all cyanobacteria and algae detected in a water sample. Examples of the classes of algae you may have in your water body are green algae (Chlorophyceae), blue-green algae (Cyanophyceae), diatoms (Bacillariophyceae), cryptomonads (Cryptophyceae), golden algae (Chrysophyceae), euglenoids (Euglenophyceae), and Dinoflagellates (Dinophyceae).
IDEAL FOR: Tracking growth and changes in algal assemblages.
CYANOTOXIN DETECTION TEST (MICROCYSTINS, CYLINDROSPERMOPSINS, ANATOXIN-A)
This service is for the detection of cyanotoxins produced by some types of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). There are 3 main kinds of cyanotoxins: microcystins, cylindrospermopsin, and anatoxin-a. Not all blue-green algae produce these toxins or may only produce one or two of the toxins. Identifying harmful algae before cyanotoxin detection testing is recommended so that laboratory staff can determine what toxin tests are necessary.
IDEAL FOR: Gauging risks from HABs.
HARMFUL ALGAL IDENTIFICATION AND ENUMERATION
This service includes a microscopic evaluation to identify and enumerate cell density of all potential toxin-producers in a water sample. Enumeration is a useful tool in determining when to utilize reactive management tactics such as algaecide applications. Enumeration is also a useful tool in tracking the outcomes of long term management of your pond or lake.
IDEAL FOR: Tracking growth of HABs.
ALGAECIDE EFFICACY TEST
Laboratory study conducted to compare effectiveness of candidate algaecides for control of site-collected algae and water with purpose of recommending a specific algaecide and application concentration for a specific site.
IDEAL FOR: Determining the most effective algaecide formulation and treatment concentration to control algae at a specific site, particularly for larger-scale projects where a higher level of confidence is needed.
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