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Chlorella-like algae

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Identification

  • Single-celled
  • Spherical
  • Will turn water green
  • Chlorella does not form colonies but some Chlorella-like algae can

Why Do I Have It?

  • High nitrate levels
  • High phosphate levels
  • Warm temperature
  • Vertical column mixing

Associated Lagoon (Pond) Conditions

Chlorella-like algae are not found in aeration basins but rather within lagoon systems. They will contribute to elevated suspended solids and pH, but are helpful for the reduction of ammonia, phosphorous, and nitrate.

Treatment

If Chlorella-like algae is an issue in a wastewater lagoon it can be treated with a chelated copper algaecide such as Argos, however, upon the treatment, it is likely to release high levels of nutrients and dead material into the water body. PondZilla Pro can help prevent negative effects in the wastewater lagoon effluent after chelated copper treatment. Many algae that grow in lagoons, such as Chlorella, are symptoms of high levels of sludge build-up and internal nutrient recycling. Sludge can be physically removed by dredging or a non-disruptive option: Sludge Rx. This can aid in sludge reduction and prevent resuspension of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus.

Because wastewater issues and the cause behind algae can be complex, we recommend our Filament ID and Microanalysis. This not only confirms algae and filament ID, but looks at biological indicators, plant design, and incoming substrates to decode your unique process.

Under the Microscope and in Your Plant

Chlorella-like algae can be found in wastewater polishing lagoons with high nitrate and phosphate levels as well as periods of increased sunlight. These are the optimal growing conditions for Chlorella. It also has a high tolerance to soluble organic compounds that are typically found in wastewater. Chlorella-like algae is a spherical, planktonic, genus of unicellular green alga that can sometimes form colonies. This alga ranges from 2 µm to 10 µm in diameter and has the ability to rapidly regrow. It is very difficult to identify because it has no significant identifiable traits in comparison to other similar small, single-celled algae. The only way to conclusively identify Chlorella-like algae is by observing its reproductive life cycle or through genetic testing.