Submitting an Algae Sample for Identification

Image 1. Confirmed harmful algal bloom (HAB), Microcystis, in a pond in the Upstate of SC.
Image credit: SC Pond Owner

If there is an algae bloom in a pond you own or manage, it’s crucial to know what type of algae is growing to determine an effective response.

General types of algae can often be identified by submitting pictures to your local Agent or the Clemson University Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic. In some cases, including a suspected cyanobacteria bloom, you may need confirmation of the algae species from the Clinic. For confirmed identification, follow the directions below.

How to Collect an Algae Sample

Supplies Needed

• Gloves are recommended.
• Use a clean, plastic bottle that holds more than one cup of liquid.
  (Example: a rinsed, disposable drink container)

Collection Instructions

1. Fill the bottle up to 90% full of the algae and pond water. Be sure to leave empty space!
2. Ideally, the sample should be collected early in the day (within a few hours of sunrise) and should capture material from the bloom.
3. Keep the sample cool and away from direct sunlight.
4. Submit the sample to Clemson Extension as soon as reasonably possible.

Image 2. Example of an algae sample, in a plastic drink bottle, to be submitted to the Plant & Pest Diagnostic Clinic. Note that the bottle is only 90% full.
Dr. John Hains, ©2020, Clemson University

Image 3. Example of an algae sample, in a plastic container within a plastic zip-top bag, to be submitted to the Plant & Pest Diagnostic Clinic. Note that the bottle is less than 90% full.
Heather Nix, ©2020, Clemson Extension

• No need for ice, but avoid leaving the sample in a hot car.

What to Include with the Sample

Your sample package should contain:

1. A completed Plant/Weed Identification Sampling Form (PDF)
2. The algae sample
3. Payment
   $20 (South Carolina collection site)
   $30 (Out-of-state samples)

How to Submit Your Sample

Option 1: Drop Off at County Extension Office

• Take the sample to your local Clemson Extension office.
• Hours may vary, and most offices are closed during lunch.

Option 2: Ship the Sample

• Use USPS, FedEx, or UPS
• The Plant & Pest Diagnostic Clinic accepts deliveries on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, except holidays.

Option 3: Use the Pendleton Drop Box

• Coordinate with lab staff at #864.646.2133
• Leave the sample in the drop-box located at the rear loading dock in Pendleton, SC
• Available Monday through Friday, except holidays
• NOTE: You must call ahead to ensure the staff can retrieve and refrigerate the sample promptly.

When to Expect Results

Sample results are generally available within five business days after the Clinic receives the sample.

Results will be emailed to you.

Additional Resources

• How to Take Good Photos For Your Extension Agent (March 26, 2020)
• HGIC 1899: Do It Yourself: Visual Indicators, Stick Test, and Jar Test for Cyanobacteria
• LGP 1126: Pond Weeds: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options
• HGIC 1858: Cyanobacteria: Understanding Blue-Green Algae’s Impact On Our Shared Waterways

Revisions were done by Heather Bergerud Nix and John Hains on 07/25

Originally published 10/20