Abstract
Algae are a common and important part of many aquatic systems, in both marine and freshwater habitats. These organisms can help drive ecosystems from the bottom-up but can also be a detriment through harmful algae blooms (HABs). Explosions in algae populations can lead to fish kills, shellfish poisoning, and toxin biomagnification in surrounding ecosystems. HABs can directly impact human life as well, potentially leading to human health issues, degraded livestock and pet health, and economic deterioration in areas relying on tourism and aquatic recreation. Additionally, anthropogenic factors appear to be increasing the frequency and magnitude of HABs. Understanding HAB occurrences and associated toxin production is an important step in mitigating harm and adapting to effectively live alongside algae species.
This study adds to our understanding of these issues by examining how algae populations, and associated toxin presence, changed seasonally in Lake Trafford, a Florida freshwater lake utilized for recreation and in an agricultural watershed. Algae samples were taken over five months, from July 2020 to November 2020. Algae genera were identified and enumerated as cells per liter, while total toxin presence was determined via Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Algal growth potential (AGP) experiments were performed monthly to explore the impact of nitrogen and phosphorus on the Lake Trafford algae community. These data were used to assess algal seasonality, real-world toxin production, and impacts of nutrients on algal cell concentrations and toxin production in Lake Trafford. This information is vital in developing best management practices for Lake Trafford and allows for a better understanding of when blooms may occur and how they can impact Lake Trafford’s biota.
