Algae are an important component of a healthy ecosystem. They are a large group of diverse plant like organisms that use photosynthesis to produce their own food. Algae form the foundation of aquatic food webs, which support an abundance of life. They are the most important photosynthesizing organisms on Earth. They capture more of the sun's energy and produce more oxygen (a byproduct of photosynthesis) than all plants combined.
Some algae know as blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals.
When conditions are favourable, the algae population can rapidly increase to form a large mass or scum called a bloom. Dense blue-green algae blooms may make the water look like bluish-green or green pea soup or turquoise paint; however, olive-green and red blooms have been reported. Take a cautious approach with blue-green algae blooms, although many varieties are harmless, some can produce toxins. Only laboratory analysis can determine whether or not a bloom is toxic.
