The St. Maarten Nature Foundation has over the past week been conducting research into an algal bloom within sections of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. Boaters in the area have also been complaining to the Nature Foundation of algae clogging the intake valves of their vessels. During two research dives it was established that the probable identity of the algae was related to a Cyanobacteria which can be naturally occurring or which can occur due to man-made influences.
Caption: The algae under the surface of the Simpson Bay Lagoon
The algae was found to be of a gelatinous nature and clumped to seagrasses below the surface and when disturbed broke free and floated within the water column. A sample of the algae was taken and analyzed in order to determine species and possible cause. Samples were also sent abroad for confirmation of species. Preliminary results show species being a cyanobacteria.
Based on the probable identification of the species water quality was tested in order to determine the possible cause of the algal bloom and a correlation to water quality. Water quality tests at six sites were conducted with results showing an acceptable level of water quality at all locations. Special attention was focused on the sites with the largest concentration of the algae in the vicinity of the eastern section of the Simpson Bay Causeway and in areas close to Little Key with no results showing decreased water quality. Samples of the algae were sent to an algae specialist for further consultation and identification. The Nature Foundation is monitoring the developments of the bloom which shows some sign of dissipating.