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Long-term algal control in a reservoir using barley straw

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Abstract

Populations of cyanobacteria, diatoms and unicellular green algae in a potable supply reservoir have been suppressed continuously since 1993 by repeated treatments of barley straw. Algal cell numbers dropped soon after the straw was introduced and have remained at approximately one quarter of those recorded prior to treatment. All types of algae, including diatoms and cyanobacteria, have been uniformly affected and no new or resistant species have developed. Taint and odour problems in the potable water have been reduced and filters at the water treatment works require less frequent cleaning.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Consultant in Aquatic Plant Management, 8 Sunderland Avenue, Oxford, OX2 8DX, U.K

    P. R. F. Barrett

  2. North of Scotland Water Authority, Turriff Laboratory, Shandscross, Turriff, Aberdeenshire, AB53 7PL, U.K

    J. W. Littlejohn (Water Quality and Regulations Manager)

  3. Department of Public Health Medicine, Grampian Health Board, Foresterhill, Westburn Road, Aberdeen, AB25 2XH, U.K

    J. Curnow (Consultant in Environmental Medicine)

Authors
  1. P. R. F. Barrett
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  2. J. W. Littlejohn
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  3. J. Curnow
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Barrett, P.R.F., Littlejohn, J.W. & Curnow, J. Long-term algal control in a reservoir using barley straw . Hydrobiologia 415, 309–313 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1003829318450

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1003829318450

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