Question for the Biologists

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Originally Posted by garguy

Nimrod et al.,

While you didn't ask the question of what caused this, I am putting it out there as you already answered it in another post. Excessive nutrients from nearby fertilizer applications or failing septic systems.

To provide more clarification on Matt's comment, blue-green algae is native to Arkansas waters, but in rather small percentages. It is only when conditions are exacerbated from excessive nutrients, low flows, high temperatures, etc. that a bloom occurs. Further, 'real high' concentrations is very misleading Matt. A blue-green bloom, even at low concentrations, still produce microcystin ( a toxin) that can result in skin irritation or fish kills. These blooms are classified as HABs or Harmful Algal Blooms and are relatively rare in Arkansas, but I would expect for these to start becoming more of an issue in the coming years/decade.

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Your answer is clear and sounds authoritative. Do you work in this field? And thanks, by the way.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by garguy

Nimrod et al.,

While you didn't ask the question of what caused this, I am putting it out there as you already answered it in another post. Excessive nutrients from nearby fertilizer applications or failing septic systems.

To provide more clarification on Matt's comment, blue-green algae is native to Arkansas waters, but in rather small percentages. It is only when conditions are exacerbated from excessive nutrients, low flows, high temperatures, etc. that a bloom occurs. Further, 'real high' concentrations is very misleading Matt. A blue-green bloom, even at low concentrations, still produce microcystin ( a toxin) that can result in skin irritation or fish kills. These blooms are classified as HABs or Harmful Algal Blooms and are relatively rare in Arkansas, but I would expect for these to start becoming more of an issue in the coming years/decade.

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You are correct. What I should have said is that it normally doesn't cause a fish kill unless it is in high concentrations. This is not to say that it isn't having some sub-lethal effects on fish. I have seen blue-green algae on several lakes and ponds. The only time that I have seen it kill fish is in high concentrations. Thank you for the detailed explanation.

I notified the district biologist in that area.

Blue-green Algae Frequently Asked Questions

This web site has some good information about blue-green algae. There are some additional links at the bottom of that web page.

I went fishing there today, the core has signs up all over the lake about not swimming in the lake and other precautions that you shouldn't do. I caught close to a limit of fish, some were a little small, but those that are border line in just scale them and cook them hole, which I like that way. But the water makes you wonder just how safe are these fish to eat.

https://public.health.oregon.gov/Hea...factsFINAL.pdf
Here is a document that talks about eating fish that is caught in a lake that has a blue-green algae bloom. It sounds like they are not real sure if it poses a substantial risk. But, if you fillet it properly, you should be fine. One of the things it mentions is not eating the skin or any of the organs. Generally speaking fish absorb toxins in their organs. My guess is that they say not to eat the skin, just in case there is toxins on the skin. It also mentions that there is no currently no evidence that eating the skid increases the risk I being exposed to the toxins. It is just a precaution. It mentions that you should thoroughly was the fish flesh (who doesn't do this already) . Anyway, I just wanted to pass on the information that I have found. Y'all be safe out there.

Starting to see some blue - green algae on the water surface about mid lake again this summer . :puke

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Originally Posted by NIMROD

Hey guys , what is this turquoise colored algae that is on the water up here. Water is clearing up but has this green film.

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WOW ; that was crazy bad...

I am out of town on vacation (yeah !) and have spotty internet service. Please report the to the ADEQ. Thanks!


Sent from my iPhone using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

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Originally Posted by D10

I am out of town on vacation (yeah !) and have spotty internet service. Please report the to the ADEQ. Thanks!


Sent from my iPhone using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

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It seems to have scattered with all the wind and rain .