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Lyngbya
Lyngbya sp.
Also known as Lyngbya Algae, Black Hair Algae
Bacteria›Cyanobacteria›Cyanophyceae›Cyanobacteriales›Oscillatoriaceae
📍 Worldwide in warm freshwater and brackish water
Dark, wiry filaments of cyanobacteria that form dense mats — often mistaken for BBA. Unlike true algae, it can fix atmospheric nitrogen, meaning low nitrogen levels do not suppress it. Produces toxins harmful to invertebrates. Requires the same treatment as blue-green algae: blackout, H₂O₂ treatment, and improved flow.
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Quick Facts
- role
- nuisance — toxic
- cause
- warm temperatures, stagnant water, excess organics
- control
- 3-day blackout, H₂O₂ spot-treatment, erythromycin in severe cases
- warning
- produces toxins — harmful to fish and invertebrates at high levels
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.5–8.5
- hardness
- 5–20 dGH
- temperature
- 68–86°F (20–30°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.