Harmful cyanobacterial blooms are a global problem for freshwater ecosystems used for drinking water supply and recreational purposes. Cyanobacteria also produce a wide variety of toxic secondary metabolites, called cyanotoxins. High water temperatures have been known to lead to cyanobacterial bloom development in temperate and semiarid regions. Increased temperatures as a result of climate change could therefore favor the growth of cyanobacteria, thus augmenting the risks associated with the blooms. Though temperature is the main factor affecting the growth kinetics of bacteria, the availability of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus also plays a significant role. This chapter studies the growth kinetics of toxin-producing Microcystis aeruginosa and evaluates potential risks to the population in scenarios of climate change and the presence of nutrients. The most suitable control methods for mitigation are also evaluated.
Part of the book: Algae