Problem Cyanobacterial Blooms

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) have become an issue of increasing concern to water-resource managers in recent years. Cyanobacterial blooms form when a large population migrates to the lake surface. Vertical migration is controlled by the physiological response of the cyanobacteria to changes in hydro-environmental conditions. The mechanics of bloom formation are considered in detail. Additionally cyanobacteria move across a water-body by entrainment within turbulent currents. These processes can be modelled to aid bloom management and theoretical investigation. An example of such a model (SCUM) is presented. The role of modelling in management is considered and an alternative schematic model to calculate the cyanobacterial light-budget is presented. Such a model could form the basis of a light-limited growth model

Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics · Environmental Science · Hydrology and Watershed Management Studies · Marine and coastal ecosystems