Blooms of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are a growing concern in freshwater bodies across the globe. These blooms can upset ecosystems, harm aquatic life, and pose risks to human health. Fortunately, innovative methods are being developed to tackle this problem. This article explores the top six innovative approaches for blue-green algae treatment, providing a detailed overview for homeowners, lake managers, and environmental enthusiasts.
Biomanipulation
This method seeks to achieve the original status of an ecosystem through human interference. One of them is the method of stocking native fish species that are known to feed on algae. Another is the use of barley straw bales whereby these bales discharge some compounds that prevent the growth of algae. Both strategies are quite organic and involve keeping the balance of the ecosystem without the use of aggressive chemicals. The goal is to deprive harmful algae from the nutrients and help the good bacteria to grow and flourish.
Ultrasound Technology
This process employs ultrasonic waves that destroy the cell membranes of the algae and thus kill them. It is selective and does not affect other lives in the water body hence friendly to the aquatic habitat. Ultrasound technology is efficient and can be considered as one of the contemporary methods to combat algae without using chemicals.
Bacteriophages
Phages are viruses that selectively kill cyanobacteria. The method of using phages in blue-green algae treatment is environmentally friendly. This method is quite effective because it harnesses natural mechanisms to reduce the formation of algae. However, there is still a need for more studies to be done to establish more of its impact and uses in the long run. This is more of of a short term solution to a bloom and can only be considerd as a control measure. Bacteriophages can not address the root cause of a bloom.
Algae Skimming
Mechanical skimmers use physical means to scrape the algae off the surface of the water. This method is straightforward and efficient in removing algae that are easily seen. However, it does not solve the problem of the cause of algae, for example, the presence of excessive nutrients, and the water must be cleaned frequently.
Nutrient Management
Phosphorus and nitrogen are some of the nutrients that when present in large amounts in water promote the growth of algae. Some of the ways of addressing these nutrients include controlling the use of fertilizers, boosting the bacillus population and enhancing the treatment of wastewater. Thus, proper nutrient management will help avoid the development of the conditions that lead to the formation of algae blooms, which is the solution to the problem.
Algae Harvesting
Algae harvesting not only helps in controlling the growth of algae in water bodies but also helps in turning something that is seen as a nuisance into something that can be of value. The algae when harvested can be utilized to produce biofuel, feed for animals or as fertilizers. This method not only cleans up algae but also ensures that there is recycling and sustainability of the resources used. Nevertheless, it should be done in a manner that does not let out dangerous toxins into the environment.
Conclusion
Controlling blue-green algae is not an easy feat and the approach must be a fusion of modern and conventional. Thus, applying the mentioned approaches and emphasising preventive measures such as nutrient management, can help to create a cleaner and healthier water environment. Both class methods have their advantages and using both methods can help to solve all the problems connected with blue-green algae. Thus, through further innovation and proper management, it is possible to develop ways of controlling and eradicating toxic algae blooms.
