Cyanobacteria form one of the largest, most important groups of bacteria on earth, responsible for the evolution of plants, for producing much of the world’s oil, and even the air we breathe. Today, however, these blue-green prokaryotes accumulate in waterways and water sources, causing a variety of grave issues.
Cyanobacterial blooms are the result of the over-abundance of nutrients in water, specifically nitrogen and phosphorous. Human influences such as urbanization, increasing population, and agriculture contribute to their proliferation. Scientists explain that global climate change has caused toxin-producing cyanobacteria to spread into more temperate regions. As a result, the problem has become far more widespread.
Cyanobacteria are a growing concern for drinking water utilities as the bacteria can interfere with water treatment by plugging filters or by producing cyanotoxins. These toxins can impact drinking water quality, particularly taste and odor. While health effects from drinking water contaminated by cyanotoxins are not well understood, potential negative health impacts include liver, nervous system, and gastrointestinal problems. Currently, there are no US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations outlined for cyanotoxins or their management.
There are, however, several detection methods for cyanotoxins: high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS), liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry or tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS and LC/MS/MS), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
The American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the Water Research Foundation (WRF) encourage water professionals to adopt site-specific monitoring, management, and treatment plans. In addition, the organizations have recently released resources to help water facilities managers detect and control algae-related contaminants that can impact drinking water quality.
“Managing Cyanotoxins in Drinking Water: A Technical Guidance Manual for Drinking Water Professionals” offers valuable information on the preparation, treatment, and response to cyanotoxin issues. This resource and the accompanying manual, “A Water Utility Manager’s Guide to Cyanotoxins,” are available on the AWWA and WRF websites.
What is your experience? Are cyanobacteria blooms becoming a serious issue? Does your facility have a management plan in place?
