Main dominant algae are colonies of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae

400x Aphanizomenon flos-aquae sp.

 400x  Woronichinia naegeliana                                        1000x inverted

Look at how by just changing magnification and lighting, you can see more details

low levels of Anabaena spp. 1000x

all three species common in many lakes, often times found together!

1000x Volvox

Many theories exist  and can be researched on the internet, some algae species such as Aphanizomenon flos-aquae are actually harvested and sold as a nutrient vitamin supplement to people and the Agriculture industry. Some sites pick on all  species  of cyanobacteria, etc. We did create a digital file and saved all the visual photos as well as microscopic samples for reference purposes.

low levels of Dinoflagellatae                                                 Diatoms

Many higher life forms were present in the surface algae

Daphnia, free swimmers, stalked ciliates, and Copepods

1000x Ostracod                                                             Daphnia 100x - fish love these!

See attached microscopic analyses worksheets for sample 3

Sample point analyses #2

Sample Point analyses #3

We will collect samples periodically, especially during spring and fall turnover, but we also recommend we examine the dead corners of the lake as well as the main 7 sample points. The lower the aeration and mixing, the higher the levels of algae and maybe more diverse types. Since Presidents Bay is an area where many boats pull into and swim, it would be very good to check to see the types of algae at the far inlet and end of the bay.

( These recommendations were carried out in 2007 and samples from all over the lake were pulled as well as visual photographs. It was amazing to see how quickly the lake made a turnover, in less than a week, due to very high temperatures in the spring and very little rain)

We pulled the general samples at 25 feet below the surface to check for algae and biomass for the microscopic analyses. We did pull samples close to the shore and some of the actual algae was scooped into bottles and examined for specific species.

The water is relatively clear in most spots where buffer zones exist or rip rap prevent the run off of debris, soil and nutrients.

Oil from boats adds hydrocarbons to the water and certain species of algae can grow quite prolific when there is a readily available source of food.

Trees, leaves and debris are natural hiding grounds for fish and aquatic species. Algae can thrive again in this area due to organics and nutrients available. Do not put leaves, branches, yard debris, Christmas trees, etc into the lake. Consider natural landscaping, or at least putting in a buffer zone down by the waterfront if you have waterfront property.

Also consider using less fertilizer, alternating the use of phosphorus in your fertilizer or use fertilizer with no phosphorus since phosphorus has been shown to be a contributing growth factor or limiting nutrient for some algae species.

Lilies are actually great for lakes. They take up significantly more nutrients than algae species, provide a hiding ground and protection from sun for fish and higher life forms.

Too much algae around the lily pads though can cause decomposition.