Algal Bloom Records
Since 1991, DSE has recorded all blue-green algal blooms reported to it. This page shows graphs comparing yearly records from 1993/94 to 1997/98.
Causes and Management
This page describes the causes and management of Algal Blooms.
Contact Details
- Algal Identification and Toxicity Testing
- General Information and Advice
The frequency and intensity of algal blooms, particularly toxic varieties of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), have become an ever increasing problem in Australia over recent years, for both the environment and for domestic, agricultural, industrial and recreational users of water.
Tastes and odours can make water objectionable for drinking and recreation. Where toxic, blooms can have serious health implications for recreational users, and humans, animals and birds when contaminated water is contacted or consumed. | 
Algal Bloom on edge of waterbody Photo: Ross Perry |
Not all blooms of blue-green algae are toxic. However, algal blooms (from both blue-green algae and true algae) can cause discolouration of water, unsightly scums, tastes and odours, depletion of dissolved oxygen and the production of toxins. |
