Stuffed Blue-Green Algae

Who would've thought slime was so CUTE?!?

Our Blue-Green Algae

This strange-looking stuffed blue-green algae is an unusual replica. It is 7 1/2 inches long, is made of green and tan synthetic fur, has large eyes, and wears a sympathetic expression. If you aren't an algae lover, you will be after you own these adorable little fellas. I am not sure you'll want to put it in your tub though! This plush blue-green algae toy makes a nice pet, a gift, toy or gag and could work well for a school play or show-and-tell as a school science project. Or maybe you have a biologist friend or teacher who needs an unusual gift! Check out our other aquatic plant toys and gifts.

About Blue-Green Algae

Blue-green algae is a parasitic cyanobacteria, also known as anabaena. It appears as a blue-green scum on water but can also be found on moist ground. It is a significant component of the nitrogen cycle and obtains its energy through photosynthesis. Blue-green algae can be alone or form huge colonies. The association of toxicity with such blooms has frequently led to the closure of recreational waters when blooms are observed.

The tag on our Algae says:

FACTS: Much of the muck you see in slimy green water is composed of blue-green algae! (Blue-green algae is the common name for cyanobacteria.)

Cyanobacteria are found worldwide and in many different habitats. They grow in fish tanks and swimming pools, as well as innumerable marine and freshwater environments. They are also found in soil, houseplants, and as symbiotes in animals and plant-life. They can be solitary or colonial and can form large mats and filaments visible to the human eye.

Cyanobacteria are not related to any of the other algal groups; they are actually bacteria that photosynthesize.

Anabaena is a type of blue-green algae that likes to form filamentous colonies of green slime. They smell bad, taste worse, and can cause nausea if ingested. (Prolonged exposure can also cause skin irritation.)

Blue-green algae like light and warm stagnant water, so improving water circulation helps to control their numbers. Live plants can also reduce algae populations by providing shade and competition for nutrients. Certain animals, such as tadpoles and algae-eating fish, can disrupt algal communities. And where ecological sensitivity is not required (e.g., in swimming pools) chlorine and algicides provide definitive and categorical results.

This blog is sponsored by Tapir and Friends Animal Store.