Toxic Bacteria Found in Kastoria Lake

A form of bacteria that can be highly toxic is present in the waters of Kastoria Lake located in northern Greece.

According to experts from the biology department at Thessaloniki’s Aristotle University, the bacteria can form a harmful algal bloom on the water surface during warm weather.  It has existed in the lake for two decades.  Only recent DNA tests have confirmed that this bacteria called microcystis produces toxins that could a pose a risk to public health.

The scientists stated they could not determine whether the concentration of the bacteria in the water is at a potentially risky level. They proposed the establishment of a committee of internationally recognized researchers who could assess the state of the river and contribute to efforts to tackle the problem.