Easy Identification Of Freshwater Algae [ 2024 ]

: These are microscopic and single-celled, making the water look like "pea soup" or spilled green paint.

: Typically Green Algae ( Chlorophyta ). They contain chlorophyll a and b .

Chara (skunkweed) grows from the bottom and often has a strong skunk or garlic-like smell. 2. Check the Color Easy identification of freshwater algae

: Likely Blue-Green Algae ( Cyanobacteria ). They contain phycocyanin. Note: Some like Nostoc form firm, jelly-like "freshwater grapes" attached to rocks.

: Sites like the NIWA Algae ID Guide and the Landcare Research Guide provide visual references for different habits. : These are microscopic and single-celled, making the

: Diatoms often feel gritty (like sand) because of their glass-like silica shells. Identification Resources

: These look like hair-like strands or tangled mats. Spirogyra often feels slick and slimy. Pithophora feels "cottony" and coarse. Chara (skunkweed) grows from the bottom and often

First, look at how the algae is structured in the water. Most common types fall into these three categories: