Algae capable of affecting sanitary conditions in water reservoirs of the Central-Western Region of the province of Cordoba, Argentina

Abstract

Algae populations in artificial water reservoirs have a dramatic impact, particularly on the process of eutrofication. Eutrofication causes continuous change in phytoplanktonic communities, increasing the frequency and density of cyanobacteria that take the place of Diatomea, Chlorophyceae and Dinoflagellates. The main problem associated to cyanobacteria is the emergence of toxic strains which can affect human health, domestic animals and the water ecosystem at large. Cyanobacteria biotoxins are among the most powerful poisons known. The aim of this project is to survey the reservoirs known as San Roque, La Quebrada, La Falda and El Cajón with a view to identifying the main types of algae capable of affecting sanitary conditions.

For the taxonomic study of the species, the specific codes and identification manuals will be followed. Sample count shall be done using the direct count technique employing a photonic microscope. Though emphasis will be on Cyanophyceae, other taxons shall be studied as well because of their sanitary importance, their interaction with the latter or their abundance, such as Euglenophyceae, Cloropyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Dinophyceae and other groups.

Out of a total number of 80 species found, the 10 are of sanitary importance comprise two groups: a) Toxing-generating algae (hepatotoxic and neurotoxic) such as Microcystis aeruginosa, Oscillatoria sp, and Anabaena. b)Algae that can give water various tastes and odors such as Ceratium hirundinella, Peridinium sp.,Euglena sp., Aulacoseira granulata, Cyclotella meneghiniana, Carteria sp., and Closterium acicularis.

Algae populations in water supply reservoirs entail risks for the health of the communities being served, through the growth of toxic species, transfer of unpleasant tastes and odors and possible formation of trihalomethanes.