What is blue-green algae?

Blue-green algae, also called cyanobacteria, is a species of bacteria commonly found in standing or slow-flowing freshwater, such as lakes, ponds and swimming pools. Although it is called ‘algae’, it is technically not an algae but a bacterium. When conditions are favourable, such as high water temperature and an abundance of nutrients such as phosphate and nitrogen, blue-green algae can multiply rapidly. This causes a phenomenon known as ‘blue-green algae bloom.’

During such a bloom, the bacteria form a thick layer on the water surface, which is often blue-green in colour, hence the name ‘blue-green algae.’ This floating layer can secrete toxins, such as cyanotoxins, which are harmful to humans and animals. It can cause skin irritation, gastrointestinal problems, and in severe cases even liver and nerve damage in animals that drink the water.

Why is blue-green algae dangerous for swimmers?

Blue-green algae is not only an aesthetic problem, but it also poses significant health risks. When swimmers come into contact with water that has been contaminated, they may experience various health problems. Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation and itching to more serious symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhoea and nausea. In some cases, there may even be respiratory problems or fever. Therefore, it is crucial to check the water quality before swimming.

Nutreact can help with this!

While monitoring blue-green algae is important, tackling the cause is at least as essential. Nutreact is an innovative technology that can help combat blue-green algae. This technology focuses on reducing nutrients in the water, such as phosphate and nitrogen, which contribute to the growth of blue-green algae. By removing these nutrients from the water, the likelihood of blue-green algae blooms is significantly reduced.

Nutreact is a highly advanced bioreactor that works by fixing the nutrients in the water into harvestable biomass. Nutreact actually removes nitrogen as well as phosphorus from the water. This ensures that blue-green algae no longer have a breeding ground to multiply, leading to cleaner and safer bathing water.

Blue-green algae prevention and safe swimming

Preventing blue-green algae is a challenge, but with the help of a blue-green radar and solutions such as Nutreact, it is within reach to make bathing water safer. By regularly checking water quality and using sustainable water management solutions, we can reduce the nuisance of and ensure that our recreational lakes remain safe and clean.

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