PLANKTONIC ALGAE

Planktonic Algae consist of single cells or small colonies of algae cells clumped together and free-floating throughout the water column. They typically give the water a distinct green, yellow green or brownish color. A wind will often push the plankton into coves or along the pond edges, giving the appearance of green or yellow paint. The individual cells are not usually visible to the naked eye. Examination under a microscope reveals literally millions of individual cells or colonies. Treatment is typically with a copper-based algaecide such as Cutrine-Plus or Captain. Sometimes a blue pond dye such as Aquashade is effective in filtering out the photosynthetic rays of the sun and limiting growth. Since blooms of planktonic algae often indicate high nutrients and low oxygen, the addition of an aerator or aeration system is often a good long term solution.