Planktonic Algae

Types of Planktonic Algae in Kentucky

There are four different types of planktonic algae found in Kentucky: blue-green, brown, green, and Euglena. These can be distinguished from other plant types because they do not have a multicellular structure like regular plants and many other algae, and they can tint pond water different colors.

Below are pictures of the four types of planktonic algae, with links to their individual pages.

Blue-Green Algae

Blue-green algae forming a skim on the surface of pond water.

Blue-green algae form a skim on the surface that can be light green, dark green, blue, or even white.

Brown Algae

Brown algae floating in the water column, making the water appear brown.

Brown algae are free-floating in the water column; the water itself appears brown.

Green Algae

Green algae floating in the water column, making the water appear green.

Green algae are free-floating in the water column; the water itself appears green.

Euglena

Euglena in pond water.

Euglena are unicellular organisms that have characteristics of both plants and animals.

Return to the Main Algae page