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Plant Identification
 

Plant Identification  --  Algae
The algae are primitive plants closely related to the fungi. They exhibit no true leaves, stems or root systems and reproduce by means of spores, cell division or fragmentation. Some 17,400 species of algae have been identified and thousands more probably exist.
Toxic Algae
Planktonic Algae
Filamentous Algae
Attached-Erect Algae
Tolerant Algae
These organisms have adapted to many different habitats and exhibit a wide range of characteristics. They can be found in many places from hot springs to glaciers, fresh water to salt water and sandy beaches to rice paddies.
On the following pages nuisance algal growths are classified into 3 general categories: planktonic, filamentous, and attached-erect forms. The use of copper sulfate has not been recommended as research and field usage have shown a high potential for detrimental environmental effects. In certain waters copper sulfate is quite toxic to fish and other organisms. Overuse of this product is common due to its short-term effectiveness. This can result in copper build-up in the sediments leading to a sterile bottom.
       This pond experienced severe problems with filamentous algae (left). Periodic treatments with Cutrine-Plus control this growth (right).



Descriptions and pictures are from the book "How to Identify and Control Water Weeds and Algae", Edited by James C. Schmidt, 5th edition revised 1998, copyright 1976 Applied Biochemists.
 
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