Spirulina

Treatment

Spirulina can be treated by adding an algaecide, like Argos. Argos will damage the cells, causing them to leak and die. AquaSticker can speed the treatment process by disrupting the microbiota of this alga which weakens it, allowing Argos easier access to the cells. To address the alga’s root cause, sludge can be physically removed by dredging or a non-disruptive option: Sludge Rx. This can aid in sludge reduction and prevent resuspension of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus.

Because wastewater issues and the cause behind algae can be complex, we recommend our Filament ID and Microanalysis. This not only confirms algae and filament ID, but looks at biological indicators, plant design, and incoming substrates to decode your unique process.

Under the Microscope and in Your Plant

Spirulina is an unbranched filamentous cyanobacterium with coiled filaments that can be loose or tight. This alga can be found in clusters or fine mats in wastewater lagoons. The cells are pale blue, green, or pinkish in color and vary in length and width (typically 2-20 µm) with rounded end cells. You may recognize the name, as some species are sold as health supplements. However, it is possible the supplements contain cyanotoxins that are capable of causing liver and neurological dysfunction.