New Zealand Sees Increase In Toxic Algae In Waters This Summer

WELLINGTON, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Feb, 2024) Scientists are seeing more toxic algae in New Zealand's lakes and rivers compared to previous years, as the country's warm, stable summer has created ideal conditions for the growth of the algae, which can be harmful to people and animals as it may produce toxins.

"Warm, calm waters help this type of algae, commonly referred to as blue-green algae, to thrive," Algal Ecologist Karl Safi said on Wednesday.

His work through the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research's (NIWA) Algal Services, which monitors, samples and analyzes water sources for the outbreaks of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria.

Shallow lakes and slow-moving rivers and streams are particularly susceptible, especially when the weather is hot. Bodies of water in the central North Island have seen a particularly dramatic increase in cyanobacterial blooms, said Safi.

Cyanobacteria play a crucial role in the ecosystem but become a problem when found in high concentrations because of the toxins they can produce, he said, adding that these cyanotoxins can have health risks for people and animals if exposed through touching or swallowing contaminated water and breathing in droplets of contaminated air.