Harmful Algal Blooms Research
Most species of algae are not harmful, but sometimes certain types bloom in excessive amounts and can cause harm to health and economies. Commonly called harmful algal blooms (HABs), they include both algae and cyanobacteria that can produce toxins and other irritants in freshwater. Cyanobacteria—sometimes referred to as blue-green algae—have the potential to release cyanotoxins, the most common in the US being microcystins, cylindrospermopsins, anatoxins, and saxitoxins. Even though they are classified as bacteria, cyanobacteria exhibit characteristics of algae and are therefore associated with HABs.
HABs result from complex ecological processes that are affected by a variety of factors including nutrient and light availability, water temperature, weather patterns, limnological effects, and competing microorganisms. Due to climate and land use pressures, HABs are increasing in frequency, intensity, and geographic range. Potential impacts from exposure to HABs and associated toxins include health risks to human, pets, livestock, wildlife, and other biota; restricted recreational activities; damaged ecological systems; increased water treatment costs; and decreased economic revenue. EPA researchers are looking for ways to eliminate or reduce the negative effects of HABs on human health and the environment through research on monitoring, mitigation, and treatment of HABs and the assessment of adverse health outcomes from exposure to HABs.
Research Topics
- Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms Forecasting Research
- Harmful Algal Blooms Monitoring and Remote Sensing Research
- Harmful Algal Blooms Mitigation and Treatment Research
- Harmful Algal Blooms and Drinking Water Treatment
- Data Mining and Harmful Algal Blooms
- Toxicology of Cyanobacteria
- Epidemiology and Health Effects of Cyanobacteria
Science Matters Stories
- EPA Researchers Develop Forecasting Approach to Predict Harmful Cyanobacterial Blooms for U.S. Lakes
Tools and Methods
Mobile Applications
Models and Tools
Analytical Methods
- Method 544: Determination of Microcystins and Nodularin in Drinking Water
- Method 545: Determination of Cylindrospermopsin and Anatoxin-a in Drinking Water
- Method 546: Determination of Total Microcystins and Nodularins in Drinking and Ambient Waters
- Method for Determination of Microcystins and Nodularin in Ambient Freshwaters
- Method for Determination of Cylindrospermopsin and Anatoxin-a in Ambient Freshwaters (pdf)