The angling community is being called upon to help report any sightings of dangerous blue-green algae, which is proving a growing threat on UK waterways.
Generally caused by agricultural run-off or sewage effluent, blue-green algae can pose a serious health risk to anglers as it contains toxins that can cause rashes, vomiting, even liver and kidney damage.
In addition, it can lead to de-oxygenation of the water, which can be one of the main contributing factors to devastating fish kills. Although it’s usually associated with warm weather, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology(UKCEH) is warning of a continued risk of algal blooms over the coming months.
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It has developed a free app, ‘Bloomin’ Algae’, through which pictures of suspected algal blooms can be submitted by the public. These are then checked by expert scientists investigating the threat.
This is the latest in a number of citizen science projects seeking to put power into the public’s hands when it comes to helping improve the plight of Britain’s beleaguered rivers, lakes and streams.
“Where sufficient data is recorded, it is used for research into the causes of algal blooms and how to prevent them, or reduce the risks to people and animals,” Dr Linda May of the UKCEH told us.
“The conditions that encourage blooms are now much more common under climate change, the main risk to fish being de-oxygenation when these blooms die back and decompose.”
The app can also warn you of confirmed algal blooms in your area, to help you steer clear of any potentially dangerous locations.
How to download
Simply type ‘Bloomin’ Algae’ into the app store on your mobile phone**.**
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