What is Didymo? Didymosphenia Geminata, or Didymo, is a freshwater alga diatom—a single cell of two indivisible parts—that is non-native to the Southern Hemisphere. The cell splits into two cells, then two into four and continues to exponentially increase the population with each division. Each cell grows a fibrous stalk with a gelatinous exterior (silica). The stalks band together to carpet riverbeds with impenetrable mats and smother the river or lake bottom habitats of macro-invertebrates.
Because the Didymo stalk filters minerals from the water, the alga prefers moving water with stable flow patterns. The paradox of Didymo is that it flourishes in low-nutrient water. It is now believed that the less nutritious the water, the bigger it grows, as it works to filter and store nutrients. In water, Didymo blooms look like wet toilet paper; and when dried, feel and look like dried toilet paper. The exterior is smooth and slippery, and yellow-to-brown in color.
What does Didymo do?
Didymo is invasive. It destroys biodiversity by displacing native species and alters river ecosystems permanently. Fish health and populations are directly threatened by the loss of macro-invertebrates and insects. Didymo clogs water intakes for irrigation and hydro-electric generators, and snags fishing lines.
How can Didymo be prevented?
The spread of Didymo can be prevented through conscientiously following this three-step protocol:
1. CHECK: Check for obvious pieces of algae. Throw any loose pieces into a trashcan or disinfect with fresh bleach and flush it. 2. CLEAN: Clean gear in a solution of 5% salt, or 2% fresh bleach, or 5% dish detergent. 3. DRY: Leave gear to dry completely, at least 48 hours, until it is dry inside and out.
What is FutaFriends doing to stop Didymo in Patagonia?
Education and conscientious action are key to stopping Didymo. FutaFriends is working with local government, tourism, and non-governmental groups to establish a Didymo Awareness and Education Program to reach the local and tourist communities. FutaFriends has the priviledge to work with scientist Dr. Bill Horvath and river guide Robert Currie who, motivated by their love for the Futaleufú and for Patagonia, are spearheading advocacy for Didymo action at local, regional, and national levels. Their primary focus is to spotlight the issue and to help grassroots efforts move forward.Dr. Bill Horvath, an analytical scientist from the USA, is advising the technical aspects of informational materials and educational presentations, with a special focus on the role river guides and tourism operators have in educating tourists about Didymo. Robert Currie is putting a spotlight on Didymo within government circles.
The protection of Patagonia’s waters would not be possible without your contributions. If you would like to support the work of the FutaFriends team in the Didymo Awareness and Prevention Program, make a donation.
