KBNERR Harmful Algal Bloom Updates

Our samples from the Homer Harbor were sparse over the last two weeks. Most of the species observed are represented by a single individual on the slide. Sparse samples during this period of the year are common; see the phenology charts below, the blue represents weeks of sparse phytoplankton.

For more information on this Phytoplankton Update and the Qualitative Analysis of Phytoplankton Data, click here.

Last week we saw the phytoplankton in Homer Harbor increase in diversity and abundance, especially the dinoflagellates. Dinoflagellates are a diverse group of single celled organisms that include Alexandrium and Dinophysis. The Greek root dinos, “whirling”, describes their distinctive swimming pattern when observed live under the microscope.

For more information on this Phytoplankton Update and the Qualitative Analysis of Phytoplankton Data, click here.

A variety of phytoplankton species are present in our samples this week at low levels. Homer Harbor will be sampled weekly throughout the winter and we will continue opportunistically taking phytoplankton samples at other locations.

For more information on this Phytoplankton Update and the Qualitative Analysis of Phytoplankton Data, click here.

We are still seeing some phytoplankton in our samples. None of our samples had any species with elevated numbers but we are still seeing a variety. We will be continuing to sample the Homer Harbor weekly throughout the winter but otherwise will only be taking phytoplankton samples opportunistically. We invite everyone to join us for a lunch lecture tomorrow at the Kachemak Bay Campus in Homer for a presentation on Harmful Algal Blooms in Kachemak Bay and South-Central Alaska.

For more information on this Phytoplankton Update and the Qualitative Analysis of Phytoplankton Data, click here.

This week phytoplankton is sparse in the Inner and Outer Bay. The low levels of phytoplankton in the Outer Bay differs from previous years when we have seen Mixed Diatoms at more abundant levels during this time period. We will continue to monitor phytoplankton and send out bi-weekly updates through the fall.

For more information on this Phytoplankton Update and the Qualitative Analysis of Phytoplankton Data, click here.

This week we are seeing phytoplankton at lower levels as fall settles in on Kachemak Bay. For the first time since June phytoplankton is sparse at Outer Bay sites. We will continue weekly phytoplankton sampling and analysis through October with bi-weekly email updates. However, the shellfish toxin testing program is wrapping up for the season.

For more information on this Phytoplankton Update and the Qualitative Analysis of Phytoplankton Data, click here.