Invasion course of Anabaena and Microcystis in the catchment area

Abstract

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, can be found all over the world. Some, but not all, blue-green algae can be involved in environmental problems and affect public health. Detailed discussions on blue-green algae have been carried out with regard to its toxicity and outbreak events. However, very little is known about the origin and entry routes of cyanobacteria,which are the preceding stage of green-blue algae. The goal of this study is to pinpoint the origin of the intrusion of the two types of cyanobacteria, Anabaena and Microcystis, at a reservoir catchment. The results of genetic analysis detected the Anabaena genus at a survey site in a fishing pond located half-way up the river, but did not detect it at any other survey sites. On the other hand, in the same analysis Microcystis was detected at all survey sites along the river from the upper to lower reaches. Based on the biological characteristics observed, it is not believed that Anabaena was originally present in the target area, and the results indicate a strong connection with fisheries and tourism resources.