 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Algaes are the lowest member of the plant family found within ponds. Some are easily seen with the naked eye and form mats which at times of profusion can float on the surface. Other are microscopic and can only be noticed when in profusion as they will turn the water green. There are others still that are structured similarly to vascular plants and can be mistaken for them by the untrained eye.
The Blue-Green Algaes are the simplest normally found within the pond. There is much conjecture as to whether they are actually an algae or really a bacteria. Whichever they may be, they are not a desirable algae to have present, and they normally denote an imbalance within the pond's cycle.
Blanket weed is the most common form of easily identifiable algae found in ponds. Its hair-like consistency is often found clinging to submerged plants and growing from the banks. The picture shows blanket weed that has floated to the surface. This it does by trapping air bubbles within its structure that are produced during photosynthesis. It is not a welcome addition to most ponds and many forms of treatment have been used in attempts to eradicate it.
The Red Algaes are most commonly found in brackish and salt water. Plants can be simple or branched and normally not a problem algae, being only found were conditions are favorable. The picture below shows a freshwater example of a reddish algae bloom which lasted just a few days,in a small pond .No identification was undertaken.
