The growth of algae, cyanobacteria and other aquatic plants and animals can affect the quality of water in several ways. They can cause unsightly scums, impart tastes & odours, produce toxins, block filters, increase turbidity and restrict flow in pipes and channels. Cyanobacteria are of most concern, because some species can produce toxins which may have adverse health effects.

The AWQC provides a comprehensive service for the monitoring and assessment of algae and cyanobacteria in source waters for drinking supplies, wastewaters and in waters used for recreation and agricultural use. The Centre has considerable expertise in the management of all aspects of water supply problems caused by nuisance species of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) in reservoirs, rivers and water treatment plants. Consultancy services can be engaged for limnological surveys of specific water bodies that collate the biological data with other available water quality data to provide an overall environmental assessment and allow the development of appropriate and effective management plans.

The national and international reputation of AWQC biologists in the fields of taxonomy, ecology, toxicity and management of cyanobacteria is well established and the continuing research and consultancies undertaken complement each other and strengthen our position as a leader in this field.