![]() ![]() ![]() Some HABs produce toxins (known as cyanotoxins). Under certain conditions, they can multiply quickly, creating a highly concentrated area known as a cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom, or cyanoHAB. The explosive growth of algal blooms is linked to rising temperatures and rising pollution. Keep your pets on leashes to control your animal’s contact with potential HABs. Cyanobacteria (sometimes called blue-green algae) occur naturally in fresh- water. If you notice a HAB occurring or are not sure, please use caution and do not recreate in the pond. HABs can produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals. HABS might not always be visible but are typically common during warmer months of the year and after rain events. Not all algal blooms are harmful however, when there is fast growth of algae and cyanobacteria that can harm people, animals and the environment, they are referred to as harmful algal blooms (HABs). How do I know if a HAB is occurring?Ī harmful algal bloom can produce dense mats and may look like green paint or scum on the surface of the water they can also cause foul odors. Animals, including dogs, can also be impacted by HABs, having more pronounced effects that can potentially be fatal. ![]() HABs have been associated with human health impacts including skin rashes, gastrointestinal and respiratory disease, and liver damage. Agricultural (fertilizer) runoff and wastewater effluent are sources of nutrients that have been linked to higher rates of these bacteria. Harmful Algal Blooms threaten human and ecosystem health, and disrupt aquaculture and wild fisheries, tourism, and other resources in marine and freshwater. What causes HABs?Įnvironmental factors such as the presence of nutrients, warm temperatures, and increased periods of sunlight can encourage the natural increase of cyanobacteria which is why blooms occur more frequently during the summer time. non-toxic green algae and aquatic plants from potentially toxic cyanobacteria blooms or harmful algal blooms (HABs). Blue-green algae blooms are harmful when they produce toxins that can make humans and animals sick. Some cyanobacterial HABs, or cyanoHABs, can produce toxins (cyanotoxins) that are harmful to human and aquatic health. In freshwater systems, cyanobacteria (also called blue-green algae) are microorganisms that can produce HABs. Most algae are harmless and are important parts of aquatic ecosystems, but some blooms produce toxins that pose a public health risk to people and animals. HABs are algal blooms with the potential to harm human health or aquatic ecosystems. If an algal bloom develops on the Gippsland Lakes, information (factsheets and maps) are available on this website and through local outlets, including local. ![]()
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