The Effect of Algae on Yabbies: An In-Depth Look
Q. I have 2 dams with yabbies in them. The water is a murky green colour and the yabbies have an algae growing on them which eventually covers their whole body. Will Aquatic blue clean dam and kill algae?
ANSWER
Yabbies, an Australian crustacean, are usually nocturnal feeders, foraging for algae and plant material. But because their opportunistic nature means they will also consume fish whenever the opportunity arises, showing their adaptability within the aquatic ecosystem. When dealing with unwanted algal blooms in their habitats, it is important to understand the limitations of certain treatments. Aquatic Blue, does not kill algae outright; it is designed to be used after an algal bloom has been cleared. Its role is to inhibit the photosynthesis rate of algae cells, thereby slowing down future growth.
To effectively address predominant algae problems, especially when it appears as blue-green algae, one of the best methods is the application of an algaecide. Coptrol, an approved product by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Austhority (APVMA), proves to be a solution for treating algal blooms in drinking water without any withholding period post-application. However, it’s important to be cautious during treatment, because as algae die, they deoxygenate the water. To mitigage negative effects on yabbies and other aquatic life, it is advisable to remove yabbies prior to treatment and manually clean them of any algae, ensuring their well-being while promoting a healthier aquatic environment. By taking these careful steps, we can effectively manage algal issues while maintaining the delicate balance of aquatic ecoystems.
