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2020-Oct-18

Algal Bloom-Causing Phytoplankton May Be Arriving in Ballast Water

The use of ballast tanks is a well-established practice, but about 30% of invasive species found in the Great Lakes have been introduced through ballast water. The impact of ballast water exchange is a fairly new area of study, and the Lake Superior Research Institute is commencing a five-year research plan hoping to reduce the number of organisms being discharged within the Great Lakes. Researchers are particularly interested in developing a system for treating ballast water that is effective enough to exterminate invasive microorganisms like eggs, zooplankton, phytoplankton, bacteria and viruses.

GBA will continue to monitor and report on ballast water issues and the development of technological solutions. Read more here.

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