Common Name(s): | Phytoplankton, Planktonic algae |
Scientific Name: | Chlamydomonas spp., Chlorella spp. |
Family: | Multiple |
Description: Microscopic algae that form the base of most aquatic food chains and give water a green tint. Phytoplankton are eaten by zooplankton (microscopic animals) that are in turn eaten by insects, which make up a large part of the diet of small fish and waterfowl. When people fertilize a pond to increase fish production, they are fertilizing to increase phytoplankton. |
Chemical Control Options: Copper compounds. Dye prevents sunlight from reaching the plants and limits growth. |
Mechanical Control Options: None. |
Biological Control Options: There is not a good biological control option. |