didymo, rock snot – Didymosphenia geminata

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Appearance
Didymosphenia geminata is a freshwater, single-cell, diatom (a type of algae) which attaches itself to a solid surface such as a rock with a stalk. It is light brown, brownish yellow, or white, looking very much like wet toilet paper. Didymosphenia geminata has the texture of wet wool or cotton, fibrous not slimy or slippery, and is not easy to pull apart.

Reproduction
It can reproduce asexually, resulting in large mats. It is able to spread from a single drop of water containing the diatoms. It usually reproduces most readily in cooler temperatures but has been recently known to tolerant of warmer conditions.

Ecological Threat
Didymosphenia geminata can be found in a Found in rivers, streams, and lakes. Prefers flowing water sources. It blankets streams or lake beds; blocks plants from sunlight and animals that eat plants from reaching them; and greatly reduces dissolved oxygen content in water.

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