Warning as blue-green algae confirmed in Wales

A POTENTIALLY toxic form of algae which can be harmful to both humans and dogs has been confirmed in parts of Wales, Natural Resources Wales has confirmed.

Blue-green algae, which is also called cyanobacteria, is a microscopic bacteria found in freshwater ponds, lakes, streams and brackish water ecosystems.

Despite being a completely natural summertime occurrence, blooms in the algae can produce several toxins which can be dangerous to humans, as well as being potentially fatal to animals like cattle, horses and dogs.

Water bodies affected by bluegreen algae or algal blooms may appear to be green, blue-green or greenish brown and can produce musty, earthy or grassy odours.

Blooms can form when the algae numbers become excessive and usually occur when the weather is very hot and there has not been a lot of rain, poor air circulation and lower water levels.

Cases of blue-green algae have recently been confirmed by the Environmental Agency in parts of the Lake District, but NRW has now confirmed the algae has also been found in parts of Wales this year too.

NRW has been made aware of three confirmed cases of blue-green algae in Wales so far this year, although it says there may be more.

Confirmed cases in Wales include Fagl Lane Quarry, Hope, Flintshire, which is privately owned, and at North Dock, Llanelli, which is managed by Carmarthenshire council.

A case was also confirmed at Llyn Pencarreg near Llanybydder, Carmarthenshire.