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The Effects of Algae in Drinking Water

Blue-green algae, otherwise known as cyanobacteria or "pond scum," are microscopic organisms that thrive in pools of standing water when exposed to sunlight during the warmer months of the year. Algae is not typically found in drinking water in the home, but it can be found in water sources at campgrounds and other outdoor places. Algae in drinking water can cause illness in people and death for pets.

  1. Visible effects

    • Algae can cause drinking water to change color, but in most cases it is undetectable. Only in extreme situations will the blue-green or yellowish-brown tint of an algae infestation become visible in faucet water. Algae-infested water may also produce scum.

    Smell

    • Algae in drinking water don't give off an odor until the problem is quite severe. In such situations, according to the government of New Brunswick, it will smell like freshly cut grass; in extreme cases, it will cause drinking water to smell like sewage or garbage.

    Health effects

    • While not all algae produce toxins, it is not easy to tell the non-toxic type from the more dangerous algae. Toxic chemicals released by algae can lead to a number of health problems. If too much is ingested, it can kill animals. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, humans who drink water poisoned by algae toxins can experience a litany of health issues. This includes long-term problems with the liver, digestive and nervous systems, including liver cancer. Other issues that can come up include headaches, sore throat, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact with the algae toxins on the skin can lead to hives and rashes.

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