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Field and laboratory guide to freshwater cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms for Native American and Alaska Native communities

Open-File Report 2015-1164
By:  and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr20151164

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Abstract

Cyanobacteria can produce toxins and form harmful algal blooms. The Native American and Alaska Native communities that are dependent on subsistence fishing have an increased risk of exposure to these cyanotoxins. It is important to recognize the presence of an algal bloom in a waterbody and to distinguish a potentially toxic harmful algal bloom from a non-toxic bloom. This guide provides field images that show cyanobacteria blooms, some of which can be toxin producers, as well as other non-toxic algae blooms and floating plants that might be confused with algae. After recognition of a potential toxin-producing cyanobacterial bloom in the field, the type(s) of cyanobacteria present needs to be identified. Species identification, which requires microscopic examination, may help distinguish a toxin-producer from a non-toxin producer. This guide also provides microscopic images of the common cyanobacteria that are known to produce toxins, as well as images of algae that form blooms but do not produce toxins.

Suggested Citation

Rosen, B.H., and St. Amand, Ann, Field and laboratory guide to freshwater cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms for Native American and Alaska Native Communities: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2015–1164, 44 p., http://dx.doi.org/10.3133/ofr20151164.

ISSN: 2331-1258 (online)

ISSN: 0196-1497 (print)

Table of Contents

  • Acknowledgments
  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Field Images
  • Microscope Images
  • References
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Field and laboratory guide to freshwater cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms for Native American and Alaska Native communities
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2015-1164
DOI 10.3133/ofr20151164
Year Published 2015
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Southeast Ecological Science Center
Description vi, 44 p.
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details