Cyanobacteria: Best Practices for Fishermen to Address Summer Risks

© Laurent Duclos

As temperatures rise, cyanobacterial blooms are becoming more frequent in many French bodies of water. Lakes, ponds, and areas with slow-moving water are particularly vulnerable, especially when temperatures remain high, rainfall is scarce, and water levels drop.

Health Recommendations

Often mistakenly called ?blue-green algae,? these microorganisms can give the water a bright green, blue-green, or turquoise tint. They sometimes appear as clumps resembling paint, foam, or a greenish slime on the surface. In several departments, their presence has already led to access restrictions or health advisories.

Les pêcheurs aussi concernés.
Fishermen are also affected.

The affected fishermen

Anglers are directly affected. When water appears abnormally colored or has greenish deposits, it is best to avoid staying in the area, whether by boat, float tube, canoe, or paddleboard. After each outing, equipment, boots, landing nets, and boats must be thoroughly rinsed with clean water to minimize any prolonged contact with potential toxins.

Do not eat the fish

Caution is also advised regarding fish consumption. Certain cyanobacteria produce toxins that can accumulate in the food chain. As a precaution, it is recommended not to consume fish from areas where a significant bloom has been reported. If you plan to store fish, it is best to gut and remove the head promptly before eating or freezing it. However, cooking or boiling does not destroy these toxins.

De nombreux plans d'eau peuvent être touchés.
Many bodies of water may be affected.

What are the signs?

There are several warning signs to watch for: bright green, blue-green, or turquoise water; floating patches; green foam or scum; unusual problems; and, sometimes, an unpleasant odor. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to move to a different area and avoid any contact with the water.

No magic solution

The growth of cyanobacteria is promoted by heat, stagnant water, intense sunlight, and excess nutrients such as phosphorus or nitrogen. In the long term, combating this problem requires improving water quality, reducing agricultural inputs, and restoring riverbanks. However, there is no magic solution: chemical treatments are prohibited, and mechanical interventions remain largely ineffective on a large scale.

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