Cyano-bacterial bloom

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Lake Forsyth is prone to excessive blooms of cyan-bacteria that create extreme toxic conditions in the lake. It is believed the cyano-bacterial bloom is caused by excessive nutrients in the lake, combined with warm temperatures and possibly some salinity intrusion. The cyano-bacteria of concern is Nodularia and the toxin produced is called nodularin. This is extremely toxic to any animals (including humans) who ingest it. The bloom does not occur every year; when it does it is a late summer event.

The photographs below were taken in January 2004 just at the start of a bloom. The bloom and its causes are a focus of study in this project.

All photos by Tim Davie

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