Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Wanted Dead or Alive Poster

 - take a picture of your poster and explain in greater detail which it is important for Lewisville residents to be aware of these plants and how to prevent their spread
 
Poster :)
It's important to keep an eye out for this invasive aquatic plant. Hydrilla is very aggressive in nature and will out do native species very quickly. It can form large mats over the surface of the water and block light from reaching the bottom of lakes and rivers. Taking nutrients from the water, clogging irrigation pipes and stoping boat travel are only some of the effects this invasive has on rivers and lakes. To prevent Hydrilla from spreading report it if you see it, and keep all water vehicles clean and sterile when moving from lake to lake.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Golden Algae

  1. Pick and research a FRESHWATER ALGAE OR PROTIST that causes toxic blooms or illness in Texas.
  • Golden Algae (Prymnesium parvum)
  • Discuss the following information:
  1. Characteristics of the organism'
  2. Growth and reproduction
  3. Where it is found?
  4. What type of disease does it cause?
  5. What are the symptoms?
  6. How is the disease treated?
  7. Can it be fatal?
  8. How can you prevent it?

http://aces.nmsu.edu/pubs/_circulars/cr-647/welcome.html
  1. Golden Algae is a single celled algae with a yellow-green or golden brown color. It has 2 flagella, and can produce toxins that cause extensive fish kills.
  2. These algae prefer cool, salted, nutrient rich water to reproduce and bloom.
  3. Golden Algae can be found worldwide and in fresh and brackish waters. It has been found in southern areas of the United States.
  4. This algae's toxins can affect the respiration of fish, and other creatures with gills. The gills lose their ability to absorb oxygen and bleed internally, killing the fish.
  5.  When it blooms, the water turns a brown-ish, gold color. When the toxic form blooms, fish will swim slowly under the surface. They may also jump to find better water. 
  6. There is no short term treatment to Golden Algae,
  7. There is also, no proof of Golden Algae killing humans or livestalk but that doesn't mean you can touch, much less, eat an infected fish or aquatic animal from contaminated water.
  8. http://waterschool.brazos.org/?tag=/golden+algae
  9. If you see any of the symptoms, crazy fish jumping out of the water, or any other odd activity, report to authorities. To prevent spreading of the algae, make sure to clean and bleach boats traveling from water body to water body.



http://www.wildlifedepartment.com/fishing/golden_alga.htm