Filamentous Algae: Causes, Effects & Prevention

Directions: For this assignment you are going to be reading two short articles about filamentous algae, and then answering the questions below.  You should make sure to read the questions BEFORE you start reading the articles so that you can answer the questions as you go through the information.  Not all of the answers will be in the articles; some of them will ask you to take what you know and apply it to a different situation.  Answer the questions in a separate Word Doc, and then email me your answers at the end of class.  What you do not finish in class will become your homework.  Each member of the class must submit a document with answers to all of the questions, and remember: all answers must be in your own words!

Articles
Read these two articles in order!

  1. Managing Filamentous Algae in Ponds (NMSU)
  2. Reducing Phosphorous (WA State Dept. of Ecology)

Questions
Answer these questions on a separate document.  Remember to read them BEFORE you begin reading the articles!

Article 1 Questions

  1. Explain what filamentous algae are.
  2. List at least three problems associated with filamentous algae (focus on ecological problems).
  3. Identify what causes algal accumulation (algal blooms).
  4. Explain two preventative measures that can be taken against filamentous algae.
  5. Explain the major differences between physical, chemical and biological controls of algae.
Article 2 Questions
  1. Explain why phosphorous is important for the growth of filamentous algae.
  2. Identify at least three places from which phosphorous in the environment comes.
  3. Identify the percentage of phosphorous entering wastewater plants that is caused by dishwasher detergent.

Application Questions

  1. If there is a filamentous algal bloom in an area that has lots of farms, what might be a likely cause of the algal bloom?
  2. Using grass carp or other biological controls introduces a non-native species into the ecosystem.  Identify and explain two possible concerns ecologists might have with using biological controls.

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