Solutions with Purpose

Microscopic algae typically remain suspended near the surface of the water column. Their blooms can appear in various colors, most often resembling pea soup green, though brownish hues are also common. These tiny organisms absorb nutrients directly from the surrounding water, meaning their growth and reproduction are closely tied to nutrient availability. Ponds frequently accumulate nutrient-rich runoff from nearby yards, roads, and agricultural fields, which often leads to prolific growth of planktonic algae.

Commonly referred to as Water Silk, this algae is easily identified by its long, thick, green, and slippery strands. Its name is derived from the spiral or helical shape of its chloroplasts. Filamentous algae tend to rise to the surface, forming dense, floating mats. Numerous species fall under this category, and it’s not uncommon for multiple types to coexist in a single pond. Blooms may begin as early as spring and often persist through the warmer months of summer and fall, sustained by elevated temperatures.

Often referred to as waternet, this algae is distinguished by its intricate net-like structure, typically forming hexagonal or pentagonal patterns. Its mesh-like appearance results from interconnected and elongated cells. The dense floating mats it creates can be challenging to move through. Hydrodictyon cells are highly resilient, having adapted to thrive in harsh conditions and reproduce rapidly—making this type of algae particularly difficult to control.

Commonly referred to as cotton algae or horsehair algae, this species typically appears in shades of green and yellow. During warmer weather, it forms thick surface mats that become buoyant as gas bubbles—produced by the algae itself—get trapped within the dense growth. Strong winds or heavy rainfall can temporarily disrupt these mats, causing them to sink below the surface. This often creates the illusion that the algae has vanished, though it typically resurfaces shortly afterward.

This harmful bloom, found in both freshwater and brackish environments, contains potent hepatotoxins and neurotoxins. While its color can vary, it most often appears as green patches suspended on the water’s surface. Microcystis blooms thrive in warm, slow-moving waters, especially where nitrogen and phosphorus levels are elevated. Adequate light intensity is also essential for photosynthesis, which fuels the growth and accumulation of these blooms.

These harmful blooms, found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, contain cyanotoxins that pose serious risks to pets and wildlife if ingested. Exposure can lead to symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. True to its name, this algae often appears as a blue-green slick across the surface of warm, stagnant ponds. While some blooms are dense and widespread, others may be more subtle—covering only small areas with minimal visible algae.

This microscopic protozoan is found in both freshwater and saltwater environments and is most easily recognized by its striking red coloration on the pond’s surface. Euglena is difficult to control due to its single-cell structure and protective protein pellicle. When exposed to intense sunlight, it releases granules from its center that form a tougher outer shell, contributing to its vivid red appearance. Euglena thrives in warm, stagnant water, especially during the peak heat of summer.

Lyngbya is often identified by its gray, spongy masses that float on the pond’s surface. These thick mucilage formations—sometimes several inches deep—originate at the bottom and gradually rise to the top. Lyngbya can release cyanotoxins that pose a serious threat to the pond’s ecosystem. Its cells are encased in a dense glycoprotein sheath, which reinforces the cell wall and forms a resilient chemical barrier, making it especially difficult to manage.