Stigeoclonium
Identification
- Green in color
- Short and branched filamentous alga
- Have a single row of cylindrical or rounded cells
- Plant-like branching with tapering
Why Do I Have It?
- Typically seen in trickling filters
- Direct sunlight exposure
- High levels of incoming ammonia and phosphorus
Associated Plant Conditions
In trickling filters, this alga may improve effluent quality in summer as it uses soluble inorganic nutrients. However, it can form long branched filaments that can obstruct water flow in the filter. Additionally, if the algae die all at once due to chemical cleaners or environmental conditions, it will contribute to high levels of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and BOD.
Treatment
If this alga is present in high abundance in a trickling filter, it is recommended to periodically clean the trickling filter to decrease the potential problems that may occur during and after algal death. If you are concerned about your plant conditions contact a technical rep for information and recommendations.
Under the Microscope and in Your Plant
Stigeoclonium is a benthic, short, and branched filamentous green alga. The filaments are branched with a single row of cylindrical or rounded cells. Stigeoclonium can be free-floating, however, it is more often observed attached to plants or other surfaces such as rocks inside of trickling filters. This alga can tolerate a wide range of conditions such as environments with high levels of heavy metals and organic materials.
As Stigeoclonium rarely causes issues directly, there is less information available about them in wastewater settings.