Deadly blue-green algae found in Highland loch; Highland Council confirms its presence in Loch Tarff east of Loch Ness
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DANGEROUS blue-green algae has been found in a loch on the south side of Loch Ness, Highland Council has warned.
The algae, which can form blooms during prolonged warm weather, has been found in Loch Tarff, north-east of Fort Augustus.
The algae can release toxins into water which can be harmful, and even deadly, to people, pets and livestock.
A council spokesperson said: "During this current period of prolonged warm weather, the chance of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) affecting water courses, particularly ponds, lochs and canals (as well as rivers), increases significantly.
"Sepa has notified the Council that a verified identification of blue green algae has been reported on the Bloomin’ Algae App at Loch Tarff.
"The situation is being investigated by Highland Council environmental health department in partnership with NHS Highland public health department and wider colleagues. As a precautionary measure contact with the algal scum should be avoided by people and pets.
"Notices will be posted next to the loch warning that contact with the algal scum should be avoided."
Blue-green algae exist in fresh waters in Great Britain and throughout the world; they are noticed when their concentrations increase to form “blooms” and when they form scums – looking like blue-green paint – or when they collect on the shore line.
Some blue-green algae may give rise to adverse medical effects – but not always. Effects on people coming into contact with toxic scums include skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting and diarrhoea, fever and pains in muscles and joints. Toxic algae have caused deaths of livestock and dogs, waterbirds and fish. The actions currently taken are precautionary.
The behaviour of algae is erratic.
The level of its toxicity can fluctuate; it can appear one day, be dispersed by the wind and mixing and re-accumulate at any time.
You can find more information about blue-green algae at Public Health Scotland's website.
