Lake Garda Algae Rise Raises Concerns Over Toxic Risks and Environmental Impact

And it’s not so much about problems that could cause damage to motorboats (such as clogging the cooling system that could suck them in) or to the environment (if the water level drops, it traps debris attracting rodents). In fact, in Peschiera these days, the local ecological group is conducting mechanical pruning of aquatic plants around the walls using a specially equipped boat with a mower.

The risk of toxic algae

The real issue is another: the more algae increase, the higher the risk that toxic ones will also spread, with Anabaena lemmermannii and microcystis leading the way. They produce toxins that, if ingested, cause serious gastrointestinal problems. This poses a risk not only to bathers but also to animals living in the water.

This phenomenon has so far never manifested dangerously on Lake Garda, but it is always closely monitored. Not to mention that a significant change in the number of pre-existing algae in the lake is also an indicator that something is wrong with the water. Essentially, a sort of litmus test that helps researchers trace the cause of the phenomenon.