| Abstract Detail
Cell biology Strychar, Kevin B. [1]. Developing new techniques to better understand Microcystis sp. blooms in freshwater lakes. Aquatic ecosystems are loaded with algae, much of it microscopic and relatively harmless. These assemblages form the basis of our complex aquatic food webs. Some algae, however, bloom when high concentrations of nitrate, phosphate, or pollutants occur. At such time, relatively harmless algae can produce potent toxins the cause massive die-offs and sicken or kill vertebrates when ingested. Even non-toxic algae can cause ecosystem disruption by reducing water quality, depleting oxygen levels, and blocking sunlight. In this proposal, we are using imaging flow cytometry to better understand Microcystis sp. toxin production between sub-species, production of antibiotics to ward off other competing organisms, and “hibernation” in which dormant cysts form. Considering Alberta Health Services in 2010 and 2011 indicated more than 126 lakes exceeded the acceptable Canadian Health guidelines for water quality, our study may help managers develop better control mechanisms and more reliable recreational monitoring programs.
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1 - Grand Valley State University, Annis Water Resources Institute, 740 West Shoreline Drive, 131 Lake Michigan Center, Muskegon, Michigan, 49441-1678, United States
Keywords:
Microcystis
Harmful Algae Blooms
Toxic Algae
Flow Cytometry.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Topics
Session: 58
Location: Salon 17/The Shaw Conference Centre
Date: Wednesday, July 29th, 2015
Time: 10:30 AM
Number: 58010
Abstract ID:1345
Candidate for Awards:None |
