Metaphyton
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Metaphyton is a term used to describe free-floating, filamentous algae typically observed in shallow littoral areas of lakes, where it can become entangled in the stems of rooted aquatic plants (macrophytes). Metaphyton is often characterized as having the appearance of “green cotton candy.” This filamentous algae has relatively little substance, as anyone who has attempted to grasp a handful can attest. The masses, balls, or pillows can vary in size from a few inches to a dozen feet across. They are most commonly found below the water surface but will sometimes float due to entrapped air bubbles.
Metaphyton often appears in lakes soon after “ice out” and may persist through the summer, but it often begins to degrade by late summer (August-September), at which time the masses sink to the bottom and decompose, appearing as scattered brown residue.
The Lake Stewards of Maine (LSM) has developed a process to allow volunteers to identify, document, and track the growth of metaphyton in Maine lakes and ponds. The significance of possible increases in metaphyton growth in some Maine lakes is not fully understood, but interest in the role this group of algae plays in lake ecosystems is growing. Anecdotal and observational information suggests that many lakes have experienced a substantial increase in metaphyton growth during the past decade. This project will enable volunteers to gather information to help study this phenomenon.
Metaphyton, when removed from the water, often loses all its volume and becomes a slimy thin.
LSM Guidelines for Monitoring Metaphyton Density in Lakes
1. Download and print a bathymetric (depth) map for your lake at lakesofmaine.org. The map can serve as your survey form, or you can attach an additional sheet of paper with the documentation required below.
2. Use a highlighter to shade areas of the lake where significant metaphyton growth is observed (see example). Metaphyton occurs primarily in shallow areas that are protected from wind and wave action. Metaphyton is not rooted, but it commonly becomes entangled in the stems of rooted aquatic plants, where it can form clouds or “pillows”.
3. For each highlighted area that you have identified, indicate the approximate percentage of that area where metaphyton is observed. This can be written in the shaded area, or included in a text box (see example).
4. Indicate on the map: Your name; the lake name and MIDAS; current and recent weather (cloud cover, wind, precipitation, air temperature); the date(s) when the survey was done, as well as a location/site number for each area. For example: “ July 18, 2017; Site 3”.
5. If possible, include a photo for each site number. Photos can be taken from the surface if conditions are relatively calm and surface glare is minimal (see examples).
NOTE: If you submit photos as attachments, be sure to label the electronic files clearly, including the lake name and site number. Photos pasted on a field sheet (as illustrated) are more easily associated with your survey.
6. Ideally, all sites should be visited within a one week period. Additional maps can be used to document changes in metaphyton density throughout the open-water season.
Related Information
Metaphyton in Our Maine Lakes
Metaphyton in Our Maine Lakes To download the PDF, simply click the button below. Download
Metaphyton Tracking Form
Metaphyton Tracking Form Please help the Lake Stewards of Maine (LSM) track metaphyton in our lakes! Using the form below you can submit observations of metaphyton. Thank you! For more information on metaphyton please see