ALGAL BLOOM FROM TIRANA LAKE (AUTUMN 2024)

An algal greenish jelly layer was clearly visible on the water surface, mostly in a wide lakeshore area of the Tirana Lake during October-November 2024. Sporadic lakeshore plankton samples were collected almost weekly and were observed fresh or stained with Lugol solution using the Leica DM4B light microscope and Leica DMi8 inverted microscope. A cyanobacteria bloom of Microcystis, usually known to be toxic, was concluded. These blooms occur as evidence of excessive nutrients, especially phosphates, from human activity (urban, agricultural); they cause harsh conditions for the aquatic livings, and sometimes even for humans. Collecting wastewater and their treatment is strongly suggested.