This algae has also dominated other lakes in the Harris Chain of Lakes. Dense algal growth prevents light from reaching the lake bottom, resulting in loss of aquatic plants and associated fisheries. In addition, the blue-green algae can release toxins into the lake water. These toxins have become potential threat to the human health, or at least perceived to be a threat. There is limited information regarding the human health effects of these toxins.
Alligators are sensitive indicators of lake health.
As predators at the top of the food chain, they are affected by changes in the food chain caused by lake eutrophication and they accumulate pollutants and blue-green algal toxins that may affect survival and reproduction. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Convervation Commission has performed alligator population surveys on Lake Griffin for the last 20 years. Over the last several years, mortality of adult alligators has increased dramatically while hatch rates of alligator eggs have declined. Sick alligators collected from Lake Griffin have decreased nervous function and lesions in the brain or nerves. This funding will determine if there is a human health concern related to the toxins released and evaluate potential management options for its control.