Mysterious alga threatens rivers
'Didymo' is perplexing scientists as invasive, ruglike blooms of the stuff snarl waterways in both hemispheres.
from the March 1, 2007 edition
Page 3 of 3
Algae precautions in NZ
After extensive testing, scientists in New Zealand have deemed an algaecide, copper chelate, as most effective at curbing didymo growths. Eradication isn't the hope, says Christina Vieglais, head of the country's Didymo Science Program, but pushing didymo into the background is. "The impacts of this organism are corresponding to the amount of biomass it produces," she says. "If we can reduce the biomass, we'll reduce the impact."
In the meantime, seeking to prevent infestation of its North Island, New Zealand has launched an aggressive didymo-awareness campaign. Summarized as "check, clean, dry," here are its recommendations for outdoor enthusiasts:
Check: Before leaving a waterway, check items for clumps of algae. Do not take debris found at the waterway.
Clean: Clean all items for at least one minute with one of the following:
• Hot water (60° C; 140° F).
• A 2 percent solution of bleach (200 ml. or 7 oz. of bleach, added to water to make 10 liters or 2.6 gallons).
• A 5 percent solution of salt, dishwashing liquid, or antiseptic hand cleaner, (500 ml. or 2 cups of product, with water added to make 10 liters).
Dry: If cleaning is not practical, make sure the item is dry to the touch, and then dry for an additional 48 hours.
For more information, visit: www.biosecurity.govt.nz/didymo
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