ARIZONA, USA — The Arizona Game and Fish Department is warning of an algae that can be deadly to fish after some Valley water systems tested positive for the organism.
AZGFD identified the algae as Golden Algae.
It has been found in some Community Fishing Program waters as well as in a Salt River Project canal in Mesa, according to AZGFD.
Among the Community Fishing Program waters with positive tests are Steele Indian School Pond, Cortez Lake and Alvord Lake.
Positive samples have also been found in several homeowner’s association waters as well.
The algae can produce a toxin that can be lethal to gill-breathing organisms. All species of fish are susceptible to the toxin, AZGFD said.
Golden Algae can turn the water a golden brown or golden/greenish color when in high concentrations. Signs that toxins are being produced by the algae include fish dying in large numbers, fish congregating near inflows or waterfalls or bubblers where oxygen concentrations may be higher, and fish acting lethargic such as swimming erratically or bumping into obstacles, according to AZGFD.
While the algae is deadly to fish, it poses no risk to humans.
AZGFD is encouraging anyone who sees something unusual that might be the algae to report it. You can call the Arizona Game and Fish Department's Aquatic Branch at 623-236-7254, or the Community Fishing Program Manager at 623-236-7262. You can also send an email to sgurtin@azgfd.gov or Rhill@azgfd.gov.
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