Phytoplankton samples from inner and outer Kachemak Bay have been primarily sparse. We are seeing an abundant amount of Scrippsiella spp. in Peterson Bay. This dinoflagellate looks similar to Alexandrium spp., the harmful algal bloom genus that we keep track of, except for a few differences. Scrippsiella spp. has a pointed epitheca and it’s cingulum is in alignment. Check out this great illustration done by Conrad Field for reference. For more information about the phytoplankton we are keeping track of check out our updated guide at: https://accs.uaa.alaska.edu/wp-content/uploads/KBNERR-Phytoplankton-Guide-2021.pdf
Additional information, including qualitative analysis of phytoplankton data, is available in the Phytoplankton Update for June 4th – June 10th.