Santa Cruz -
Scientists have detected high levels of the freshwater algae toxin, microcystin, in shellfish in San Francisco Bay. Although coastal waters are monitored for toxins produced by marine algae, they are not routinely tested for freshwater algae toxins.
Rising CO2 levels will eventually force many of the Earth's life forms to adapt or end up being lost. One species, the blue-green algae, of which there are many toxin-producing varieties, is adapting very quickly, and that is not a good thing.
Toxic cyanobacteria blooms, or blue-green algae blooms are often poorly monitored and have become an under-appreciated health risk, not only in the U.S. but worldwide. There are several factors contributing to the concerns.
Scientists at the University of California, Davis have discovered how to make fuel from sunlight and engineered cyanobacteria — commonly known as blue-green algae.
Paris -
A new strain of cyanobacteria has been discovered in the partially scorched waters of Lake Alchichica in Mexico. The bacteria are believed to be unique since they produce a unique endoskeleton comprising of calcified lumpy granules.
A newly created microbe produces cellulose that can be turned into ethanol and other biofuels, report scientists from The University of Texas at Austin
It has long been assumed that oxygen-producing cyanobacteria were responsible for the appearance of oxygen in the earth's atmosphere. If that theory is correct, then how is it possible that they appeared at least 200 million years before the oxygen?
Microcystis algae grow in a large bloom in the Copco Reservoir on the Klamath River, posing health risks to people, pets and wildlife.
University of Oregon
Grand Beach on Lake Winnipeg undergoing eutrophication.
EurekAlert/ Lori Volkart
“As one of the largest lakes in the world, Lake Winnipeg is very well known, but not much is known internationally about the dramatic environmental problems of the lake and the wetlands in its watershed,” said Udo Gattenlohner, of Global Nature Fund.