10/19/2026
W**d ID with Salt Creek:
🍃 Filamentous Green Algae (Cladophora, Pithophora, Spirogyra & others)
▪️ Appearance:
Filamentous green algae, often called pond scum or pond moss, forms green, cottony mats that may float on the surface or attach to rocks, debris, and other plants. Unlike aquatic w**ds, it has no leaves, roots, stems, or flowers—just fine, hairlike green strands.
▪️ Common Types:
1️⃣Cladophora: Cottony texture; can form floating balls as the center decays.
2️⃣Pithophora: Also called “horsehair algae” because of its coarse, rough texture.
3️⃣Spirogyra: Bright green, slimy strands that have a spiral pattern visible under magnification.
▪️ Why Does It Float?
On warm, sunny days, bubbles from photosynthesis or decaying algae can get trapped in the mats, causing them to rise to the water’s surface.
▪️ Pros and Cons of Filamentous Green Algae:
Small amounts of algae are a natural part of pond life, but excessive growth can create thick mats across the water’s surface. As those mats die and decompose, they can contribute to organic buildup and affect water quality.
The goal isn’t always to eliminate every bit of algae—it’s to keep growth under control and maintain a healthy, usable pond.
❓ Think you have filamentous green algae taking over your Missouri pond? Call Brody for a free estimate!
Brody 📲 660-207-2860
**dID
