The Complicated and Confusing Ecology of<i>Microcystis</i>Blooms
Steven W. Wilhelm, George S. Bullerjahn, R. Michael L. McKay
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.
Topics & Concepts
MicrocystisEcologyAlgal bloomNutrientHerbivoreBiomass (ecology)Competitor analysisEcosystemBiologyCyanobacteriaMicrocystinEnvironmental sciencePhytoplanktonBusinessBacteriaMarketingGeneticsAquatic Ecosystems and Phytoplankton DynamicsMarine and coastal ecosystemsBiocrusts and Microbial Ecology