While invasive zebra mussels consume small plant-like organisms called phytoplankton, Michigan State University researchers discovered during a long-term study that zebra mussels can actually increase Microcystis, a type of phytoplankton known as “blue-green algae” or cyanobacteria, that forms harmful floating blooms.
While invasive zebra mussels consume small plant-like organisms called phytoplankton, Michigan State University researchers discovered during a long-term study that zebra mussels can actually increase Microcystis, a type of phytoplankton known as “blue-green algae” or cyanobacteria, that forms harmful floating blooms.
“Microcystis literally means small cell, but numerous cells cluster together in colonies that can float to the surface to form scums,” said Orlando Sarnelle, a professor emeritus with the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “It is one of the most common causes of nuisance algal blooms in nutrient-enriched waters, including Lake Erie where it is a concern for municipal water supplies.”
In the 1990s, researchers observed the appearance of dime-sized zebra mussels in Gull Lake, Michigan. Shortly after the mussels arrived, the researchers noticed an increase in Microcystis, which was surprising because the lake has low levels of phosphorus and Microcystis has a well-documented need for high-nutrient waters.
Read more at: Michigan State University
