subject: Is It Possible To Control Filamentous Algae? [print this page] Theres no doubt that filamentous algae are one of the most troublesome types of algae and the most excruciating to control. The accumulation of filamentous algae in the pond or any bodies of water not only tarnishes the beauty of the marine environment, but it also deteriorates the aquatic life. The large populations of filamentous algae can deplete the oxygen content and interfere the ponds normal food chain. Otherwise, early and immediate preventative measures will help control the problems brought by filamentous algae.
Filamentous algae are single-celled plant-like organisms that form hairy strands or filaments. It starts to grow from the bottom of the pond, then attach to plants, rocks, and surfaces. As it increases in number, it gives off excess oxygen that becomes entrapped within the strands or filaments, causing it to float on the surface of the water and cover the entire pond. All species of filamentous algae are microscopic. Some of the most common forms of filamentous algae are Spyrogora, Cadophora and Pithopora.
There are various techniques applied in controlling filamentous algae. Some of the most effective treatments are as follow:
Mechanical Control
Filamentous algae can be raked from the bottom of the pond. Removing the decayed algae can help prevent the dead algae from consuming the oxygen and other nutrients in the pond. Otherwise, the algae that have been removed can be used as compost or mulch.
Biological Control
Biological control is done by suspending the growth of filamentous algae through natural methods.
One highly effective method is the development of aquatic plants and animals on ponds and other water systems to serve as protection from intense sunlight. Most types of algae thrive in marine environment where the sun and nutrients are profuse; thus, adding plants on the water surface can deprive the algae of the necessities they need for growth. However, this treatment requires proper management and sufficient time to see the results; otherwise, using inert dye can make the task less cumbersome.
There are so-called vegetation eating fish used for controlling the growth of filamentous algae. Some of these types are tilapia, grass carp, and white amur. These species are said to consume filamentous algae, yet the volume on how much filamentous algae they can consume is still indefinite.
Chemical Control
Chemical control is often used in highly infested or uncontrolled ponds and lakes. Meanwhile, this chemical treatment must be done with proper care and intensive management.
Copper Sulfate Most species of algae can be treated even with very low concentrations of copper sulphate. The recommended dosage of copper sulphate is 2.7 pounds per acre foot of water. For best results, dilute copper sulphate in water and splash it directly on the floating large mats. Keep in mind that the actual contact of copper sulphate to algae is important to ensure removal of filamentous algae.
Copper Chelate This chemical is available in liquid or granule forms. The granule treatment works well when applied before the growing season because the granules take 2-3 weeks to dissolve and take effect. Otherwise, there is no requirement as to how much water is needed for this treatment.
