How to Kill Blue Green Algae

Avoid eating fish that may have fed on blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae, also known as pond scum, constitutes a threat to both humans and animals. This type of algae, which is technically classified as a bacterium, can bloom suddenly, releasing poisons into the water. People and animals who ingest these poisons may experience seizures, vomiting, paralysis, fevers, and in extreme cases, death. To rid your pond of this danger, create an environment where blue-green algae cannot thrive.

Instructions

1. Avoid using lawn fertilizers, which can introduce phosphorus and nitrogen into your water source, feeding the blue-green algae.

2. Plant trees and shrubs around the water source to create shade. Blue-green algae depends on light to survive, so reduce the amount of light at your water source.

3. Investigate the use algaecides such as diquat or sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate, to remove the blue-green algae from your water source. Many states require that a licensed professional apply such treatments. Contact your state's Department of Natural Resources for more information.

References

• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: Blue-Green Algae In Wisconsin Waters
• "Freshwater Management: Global Versus Local Perspectives"; Michio Kumagai, Warwick F. Vincent; 2003
• "Wicked Plants: The Weed That Killed Lincoln's Mother and Other Botanical Atrocities"; Amy Stewart; 2009
• Department of Ecology State of Washington: Algae Control Methods