Brown Algae

Brown algae (Various genera) are free-floating in the water column and make the water appear brown or stained.  They can be confused with other pond problems such as turbidity and tannin staining.  Brown algae blooms can become dense and lead to fish kills in ponds, and are commonly found in ponds that receive excessive nutrients from organic wastes such as pastures and feedlots.

 

Mechanical Options

There are no practical mechanical options for controlling brown algae due to their small size and unicellular nature.

 

 

Biological Options

Biological options are not available due a lack of species that consume them

 

Chemical Options

The active ingredients that have been successful in treating brown algae include: copper based compounds (E), sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate (G), alkylamine salts of endothall (G), and flumioxazin (G). E = excellent, G = good