In the serene freshwater world, there is a seemingly insignificant yet not-to-be-underestimated organism – Microcystis aeruginosa. It is like a mysterious “hermit”, unfolding a unique chapter of life in the water.

The morphology of Microcystis aeruginosa is exquisite and unique. The algal bodies are usually spherical or nearly spherical, like tiny green planets. The colonial mucilage is uniform in texture, without stratification and transparent and colorless, as if draping a thin and flawless veil over these “planets”. Its cells are also spherical or nearly spherical, and the protoplasts present various colors such as grayish-green, bluish-green, bright green, or grayish-brown. Most of them also have gas vesicles, enabling them to float and survive more flexibly in the water.

It prefers to inhabit water bodies rich in organic matter such as lakes and ponds, leading a planktonic life. A suitable growth environment is crucial for it. When the pH value is between 8 – 9.5 and the water temperature is between 28 – 32°C, it flourishes rapidly as if favored by nature, demonstrating strong vitality.

The distribution range of Microcystis aeruginosa is extremely wide. In China, it can be found from the northern regions like Hebei, Inner Mongolia, Jilin, and Heilongjiang to the southern regions like Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Guangdong. Globally, Microcystis aeruginosa blooms have appeared in at least 108 countries, becoming a global presence.

However, beneath its seemingly ordinary appearance lies a dangerous side. Microcystis aeruginosa has a toxin-producing property. The microcystin it produces is a cyclic heptapeptide compound with strong hepatotoxicity. This is like its “weapon” hidden in the dark, posing a serious threat to the health of organisms. Moreover, it can also produce neurotoxins, further increasing its potential harm.

When Microcystis aeruginosa multiplies in large numbers, its impact on the ecosystem cannot be ignored. It frantically consumes the dissolved oxygen in the water, making the water body lose its “breathing” ability and gradually deteriorate. This is undoubtedly a disaster for other organisms in the water, seriously affecting their survival. Even more worrying is that microcystin may also be transferred through the food chain, quietly threatening human health.

But we cannot completely deny the existence value of Microcystis aeruginosa. In aquaculture, it has certain economic value and can be used as bait for planktonic plants and utilized by cyprinid fish that feed on planktonic plants, contributing to the aquaculture industry.

In practical applications, we must remain highly vigilant about the possible harm brought by Microcystis aeruginosa. In drinking water sources, once it multiplies in large quantities, the water quality deteriorates, generating odors and toxins, seriously threatening human health. Therefore, it is particularly important to conduct strict monitoring and effective control of Microcystis aeruginosa.

Microcystis aeruginosa, this multi-faceted character in the microscopic world, not only has a unique morphology and survival mode but also has complex ecological impacts and potential values. In the process of exploring and utilizing nature, we should understand and manage it with a scientific attitude and method to achieve harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

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