Nostoc, a blue green algae. Colonies of globular and egg forms in a gelatinous structure.
Also known as:
Troll’s butter
Spit of moon
Fallen star
Nostoc, a blue green algae. Colonies of globular and egg forms in a gelatinous structure. Blue green algae is a somewhat misleading term because the jelly-like forms consist of strands of cyanobacteria. Like plants, these bacteria use photosynthesis for cell construction; hence the green color. The large group of blue green algae or cyanobacteria, are among the oldest organisms on Earth (they have been around for 3.5 billion years), whose production of oxygen enabled the evolution of higher organisms.
During dry periods, the moist bladders shrivel into a thin layer of algal pulp.
Some blue green algae multiply explosively during high summer temperatures in nutrient-rich water, called “algal blooms”. In the process, they secrete toxins that are dangerous to fish, amphibians and swimmers.
Nostoc belongs to the non-toxic species.
Where to find
- Under humid conditions (rainy season, autumn) sometimes found on paths, stone walls, rocks.
Control
Control not necessary, nostoc poses no threat to plants.
Prevention
Does not apply.
