Blue-green algae blooms spread across Caloosahatchee River

LEE COUNTY, Fla.—Blobs of bright green algae are spreading across the Caloosahatchee River. Aerial images from the weekend revealed blue-green algae blooms spanning the waterway.

At first glance, the scene may seem peaceful. However, the water below tells a different story with the presence of cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae.

This bloom isn't confined to stagnant water or canals. It's spreading through the main channel of the Caloosahatchee River.

Experts say these blooms need three main elements: warm water, sunlight, and nutrients. When runoff flows through a basin, these conditions can quickly come together.

The latest data from the Calusa Waterkeeper indicates that most nutrients in the Caloosahatchee come from agricultural lands. Other contributing factors include Lake Okeechobee releases and other local basins.