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Also known as cyanobacteria
Potentially toxic cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, may form dense blooms in fresh water bodies. This may be seen as a thick green coat or scum within the upper water layer and surface. Blooms are mainly a problem in late summer and autumn. They are associated with nutrient over-enrichment due to factors such as animals defecating and urinating in the water or fertiliser run-off. Many blooms are not toxic, but all should be considered potentially so. A range of cyanobacterial genera and species have been described including Microcystis aeruginosa and Anabaena circinalis. Different cyanobacteria may produce hepatoxins and/or neurotoxins.
Affected animals may be found dead. Clinical signs due to neurotoxins may include: muscle tremor, staggering, salivation, hyperaesthesia, diarrhoea and recumbency. Clinical signs due to hepatotoxins may include: anorexia, dehydration, jaundice, hypersensitivity or stupor, photosensitivity and recumbency.
Diagnosis is based on the visible presence of an algal bloom in animals’ drinking water confirmed by microscopic examination for blue green algae.
Test | Sample(s) required | Days of the week test is conducted | Turnaround time1 |
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Histopathology examination | Fixed tissue | Monday – Friday | Up to 5 days |
Microscopic examination for blue-green algae | Water and scum | THIS TEST IS CURRENTLY OUTSOURCED | TBA |
1 Turnaround times are provided as a guide only. For specific information about your submission please contact Customer Service.
Fixed tissue |
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Water and scum |
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NSW DPI general information on blue-green algae.
Microscopic confirmation of the presence of cyanobacteria indicates the possibility of cyanobacterial poisoning, but does not confirm that the bloom is toxic.