Work

The Complicated and Confusing Ecology of Microcystis Blooms

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: Blooms of the toxin-producing cyanobacterium Microcystis are increasing globally, leading to the loss of ecosystem services, threats to human health, as well as the deaths of pets and husbandry animals. While nutrient availability is a well-known driver of algal biomass, the factors controlling “who” is present in fresh waters are more complicated. Microcystis possesses multiple strategies to adapt to temperature, light, changes in nutrient chemistry, herbivory, and parasitism that provide a selective advantage over its competitors.

Source: mBio

DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00529-20

Authors: Steven W. Wilhelm, George S. Bullerjahn, R. Michael L. McKay

Institutions: University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Bowling Green State University, Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor

Language: English

Topic: Aquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton Dynamics

Subfield: Environmental Chemistry

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,900

Funders: National Science Foundation, University of Windsor, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences