Filamentous

Filamentous Description:

Filamentous algae grows on the bottom in shallow waters or will attach to rocks and aquatic plants. This single cell algae can form long, visible thread-like strands (up to 30 cm) or shorter hair type strands (about 5 cm). They intertwine and form large mats floating on the surface. Filamentous algae is commonly referred to as pond scum. Because there are many varieties of this algae, more than one type will grow together in the same pond.

The use of high nitrogen fertilizer in low alkalinity water is often the cause of large amounts of Filamentous algae in farm ponds. At the beginning of the season, clumps of this algae form on the water surface and then will eventually cover the entire surface of the water. The algae can be easily picked up in handfuls because they readily adhere together.