Filamentous algae, also called “pond moss or scum,” are single cell plants joined end-to-end with a thread-like appearance. It grows in shallow water in late winter and early spring when water temperature exceeds 39° and sunlight reaches the lake bottom. The algae adheres to submerged rocks, trees, and other vegetation in dense, hair-like masses.
As it grows, filamentous algae produces oxygen that’s trapped in the tangled strands and submerged mats. The trapped oxygen causes clumps of algae to rise to the surface where it appears as floating, slimy or cotton-like mats. These mats may stay in shallow water near the shoreline or drift with the wind.
High winds and rain can free the trapped oxygen, breaking up the mats and re-submerging the algae, which may rise again or remain on the lake bottom. The algae eventually turns brown and dies, or other natural controls limit growth as the water temperature warms. The algae usually disappears from the lake surface in a few weeks.
The size of nuisance “blooms” of filamentous algae that interfere with boating, fishing, and swimming, and are unsightly and smell bad, varies each year. Four factors affect the algae’s presence: 1) large rainfall events that add nutrients to the lake, 2) warming temperatures above 39°, 3) lengthier periods of sunlight, and 4) winds that break-up or re-submerge the algae mats.
No, but it’s always a good practice to wash your hands after contact.
No. Filamentous algae provides cover for aquatic insects, snails, and other small animals that are valuable fish food. Lake organisms are well-adapted to periodic “blooms,” although excessive growth that’s present for long periods of time can reduce oxygen levels in the water.
The best method is to remove the floating clumps from your lakeshore with a rake. You can compost the algae or use it in your garden as mulch. Hand removal of non-rooted vegetation does not require a DNR permit.