Possible Blue-Green Algae Indicator Showing up in Local Water Quality Samples

Water quality scientists and environmental groups are worried the seeds could be planted for another crippling bloom, as cyanobacteria is still being found in the Everglades system.

Besides being detected in water quality samples, a blue-green algae indicator called phycocyanin has shown up at elevated levels in the river, levels that are much higher than they were this time last year.

“Is that a predictor that it will be worse or the next month or two, I don’t know but it doesn’t look good,” said Calusa Waterkeeper John Cassani. “If we get an increase in water temperature, that could set it off again.”