CLEMSON, S.C. — Harmful algal blooms (HABs) occur when algal communities and cyanobacteria dominate water bodies or produce toxins or other compounds that can cause taste or odor issues in water and negatively impact the health of aquatic ecosystems. Although they can occur in marine and freshwater environments, this publication provides an overview of freshwater systems HABs (i.e., lakes, reservoirs, streams, rivers, and ponds) and details the causes and effects, detection mechanisms, and monitoring approaches in South Carolina. The information benefits researchers, Cooperative Extension personnel, and community members interested in understanding and monitoring HABs.
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–Clemson Extension Land Grant Press