Waters - Unfavorable year for blue-green algae formation so far
Thuringian waters have been spared from significant blooms of blue-green algae this year. No reports of blue-green algae mass developments have been detected so far, according to the Thuringian State Environment, Mining and Nature Protection Agency. In the previous year, harmful blue-green algae were detected in people's swimming areas in the Bleiloch Reservoir and in parts of the Saale River.
The weather conditions with repeated cold air influences and rather short-term sunny phases have been rather unfavorable for blue-green algae growth, according to the agency. Blue-green algae require, according to environmental protection organization BUND, rather long-term persistent high temperatures, little wind, and abundant sunlight to reproduce.
Not really blue and not really an alga
Contrary to their name, blue-green algae usually appear rather green and are not actually algae but bacteria. These Cyanobacteria can impair water quality when they occur in large numbers. The bacteria can produce toxins that can cause diarrhea, inflammations, nausea, and vomiting in people. In particular, small children and health-compromised individuals should avoid contaminated waters. According to the Federal Environment Agency, there is a risk for children if they swallow a large amount of water containing blue-green algae.
Golden algae in focus
Experts in Thuringia are not only focusing on blue-green algae. The state will participate in a nationwide monitoring program for Prymnesium algae, which are often referred to as "golden algae" due to their color. The program is currently being prepared and will clarify how widespread this alga is in Germany, according to the State Environment Agency. It was mainly the toxin of these widely occurring Prymnesium algae that caused a mass fish kill in the Oder River in the summer of 2002. There was also recently a concerning high algae concentration there.
Theoretically, an outbreak of Prymnesium algae in Thuringia in waters with high salt content such as Werra, Wipper, Bode, and Unstrut is possible, according to the State Environment Agency. However, it has not been confirmed in the state so far.
BUND Germany on Blue-green algae Umweltbundesamt on Blue-green algae
- Despite the absence of significant blue-green algae blooms this year in Thuringia, it's crucial for environmental protection organizations like BUND to continue monitoring waters during leisure time, ensuring the safety of the public and the environment.
- The favorable weather conditions this year, with cold air influences and short sunny phases, have been beneficial for maintaining clear waters in Thuringia, reducing the chances of bathing fun being interrupted by blue-green algae.
- During educational sessions about nature and environmental protection, it's essential to inform people about the harmful effects of blue-green algae and the risks associated with swimming in contaminated waters, as advised by organizations like the Federal Environment Agency.
- As part of their efforts to protect Thuringia's environment, authorities have implemented strict guidelines to control and prevent the spread of blue-green algae in local waters, like the Bleiloch Reservoir and Saale River, ensuring a safe leisure time experience for all.
- By collaborating with environmental organizations like BUND, the Thuringian State Environment, Mining and Nature Protection Agency can effectively communicate the importance of protecting waters from blue-green algae, ensuring a clean and healthy environment for future generations.
