Marine Biochemists - A complete Aquatic Management Company

Algae Control

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Closely related to fungi, the algae consist of over 17,000 different species. The three main types of algae are:

• Planktonic Algae

- Microscopic plants usually existing in suspension in the upper few feet of water often reaching bloom proportions making the water appear brownish or pea soup green. The natural die-off of this form can cause summer fish kills due to depletion of dissolved oxygen. Some species are known to be toxic to livestock, wildlife, and man or impart odor and taste problems. Click here to see above site after treatment with Cutrine Plus algaecide.

• Filamentous Algae 

- This form is also known as "pond moss" or "pond scum" due to its formation of greenish mats floating upon the water's surface. Its filaments consist of series of cells being joined end to end giving a thread-like appearance. This form begins growing on the bottom or substrate and then lifts to the surface as buoyancy grows due to its production of oxygen. It can also exist in forms that appear fur-like growing on rocks, bottom logs, or similar feature. This form of algae may seem cottony, slimy, or coarse in texture.

• Attached-Erect Algae (Chara and Nitella)

- These advanced forms appear almost weed-like being yellow or grayish-green in color with a gritty/bristly texture and a musky odor. Its leaf-like structures are at fairly uniform intervals and are whorled about the stem. These forms may cover the entire bottom of the pond and are considered in most cases to be beneficial promoting water clarity, enhanced fish habitat, bottom sediment stabilization, and plant population stabilization by crowding out less desired species.

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Marine Biochemists offer complete integrated approaches for controlling over-abundant algae growth including:

• Chemical treatment programs using approved algaecides such as Cutrine-Plus or Clearigate (two very effective products from Applied Biochemists).
• Chemical treatment programs to reduce algae growth using light inhibiting dyes such as Aquashade (from Applied Biochemists).
• Watershed consultation including addressing non-point source pollution problems (one of the major contributing factors in nutrient-related algae problems-i.e. green lawns can lead to green ponds). See also Aquatic Consulting.
• Treatment programs for reducing and controlling existing aquatic nutrients. See also Nutrient Regulation/Deactivation or Microbial Bioaugmentation.

• Biological controls where allowed by law.

Other options for algae control.

Marine Biochemists can help you with your algae problem. Call today to discuss your situation with one of our degreed biologists. Check our homepage division listings for the location nearest you.  For additional information on Applied Biochemists' products, check their Product Listings.