Technologies

There is no easy definition of an alga. Algae are generally microscopic organisms, are generally thought of as simple aquatic plants which do not have roots, stems or leaves and have primitive methods of reproduction. However some algae display primitive animal features such as motility, while blue-green algae differ markedly from plants and all other algae, in that they have a cellular structure and function that is more common to bacteria than to the plant kingdom.

When algae grows to large numbers, or blooms, it can form thick accumulations on the surface of the water, commonly known as scums. This happens when there are high nutrient levels, low flows, low wind and high temperatures.

The problems associated with algae are

• Unpleasant odours
• Clogging of filters
• Large fluctuations in pH
• Deoxygenation due to decomposition which endangers fish
• Increase in costs
• Poor aesthetics
• Skin irritation in humans and in some cases poisoning of wildlife

The usual means of controlling algae are by

• Manual removal. Mats of filamentous algae may be removed with a rake, screen wire, or similar devices. However, this control method is very labor intensive and provides only temporary control. In some instances, the algae may seem to grow as fast as they are pulled out.
• Ionisation. Introduction of an ionic metal like copper, brass or a similar alloy in very low quantities is a very powerful algaecide. See freshwater swimmingpools where ionisation is one of the components of the pool-sanitation system and the laboratory test results on the effectiveness of this technology
• Microbes. Broad spectrum microbial products are able to reduce the amount of nutrients in water bodies to the extent that algae cannot survive. See beneficial microbes for products in this range
• Chemicals. There are many different chemical algae controlling substances on the market. We can recommend the product line of AlgaeFree Australia.
• Barley Straw has been tested for the control of planktonic and filamentous algae and has been found to be effective to some extent depending on circumstances. It generally will not totally eliminate the problem.

There is now a new way to control algae, environmentally friendly, cost effective and chemical free.

This technology uses ultrasonic waves to destroy the algae vacuole. These ultrasonic vibrations are inaudible to humans and pose no threat to people, animals or fish. We have found the effectiveness of this technology amazing and it will destroy nearly all forms of algae, with minimal impact on the aquatic environment.

The product range is optimised depending on size and usage and there are different models available for ornamental ponds, swimming pools, water storage tanks and lakes. See also the manufacturers website for more information.