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Blue-green algae in Swiss lakes not exceptional

August 17, 2020 | Andri Bryner

Blue-green algae are very common both in the water and on land. Sporadically, they occur in lakes on the surface in such large numbers that one speaks of a bloom. Because there are species that can produce toxic substances, many questions arise.

Blue-green algae, correctly cyanobacteria, are among the oldest forms of life on earth. They are very common both in water and on land. Under very special conditions, they can spread en masse in lakes and can form mats and scum on the lake surface. One speaks then of a bloom. Because there are those among the several thousand species that can produce toxic substances, many questions arise. The following question-answer catalogue on cyanobacteria provides answers to the most important ones.

Cover picture: Sabine Flury, Eawag