THE IMPACT OF ALGAE IN HORSE & LIVESTOCK WATER
We all know how important fresh, clean water is for the health of your horses & livestock. But how much do you really know about algae? In this article, we’ll explore the various types of algae that can appear in your animals’ water and discuss the negative impacts they can have. The first step to combating potential risks to your animals is to understand them!
TYPES OF ALGAE:
1.Green Algae (Chlorophyta)
Appearance:
Green algae are the most common type of algae; it’s easily recognizable by its green, slimy texture.
Impact:
While not always harmful, green algae can affect water quality and make the water less appealing for animals which can impact their hydration. Ingesting large amounts can lead to digestive issues.
2. Blue-Green Algae (Cyanobacteria)
Appearance:
These bacteria are often blue-green in color but can also appear red or brown. They form a slimy layer on the surface.
Impact:
Blue-green algae is very serious, it produces toxins that are harmful to you and your animals. Ingesting water contaminated with blue-green algae can cause liver damage, neurological issues, and even death.
3. Diatoms
Appearance:
Diatoms are microscopic algae with a golden-brown color. They tend to form a thin film on the water surface, or cling to the sides of your waterer.
Impact:
While generally not harmful, diatoms can contribute to poor water quality and make the water less appealing to animals which can impact their hydration.
THE NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF ALGAE
1.Health Risks
- Digestive Issues: Animals consuming algae-infested water can suffer from digestive problems, including diarrhea and colic.
- Toxicity: Certain types of algae, especially blue-green algae, can produce toxins that cause severe health issues or death.
2. Water Quality
- Taste and Smell: Algae can impart an unpleasant taste and smell to the water, discouraging animals from drinking enough, which can lead to dehydration.
- Clogging Systems: Algae can clog water systems, reducing the efficiency of automatic waterers and increasing maintenance needs.
3. Maintenance
- Time-Consuming Cleaning: Algae growth requires frequent scrubbing and cleaning of water containers, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming.
- Increased Costs: Regular cleaning and potential repairs to clogged systems can increase maintenance costs for owners.
How can Drinking Post Help?
Drinking Post’s automatic waterer offers a revolutionary solution to the algae problem. Here’s how:
1.No Standing Water
Drinking Post’s design ensures that there is no standing water in the bowl. When an animal activates the waterer, fresh water flows directly from the waterline and then it drains away immediately when the paddle is released. Since it fills and drains with each use, there’s never any standing water! That means algae will never grow in your Drinking Post bowl.
2. Cool Water Temperature
Water from the Drinking Post will come up at a constant temp of 50°F (10°C) year-round. This cool temp makes for the perfect drinking water for horses & livestock. Plus, it will discourage algae growth! Algae thrive in warm conditions, so the consistently cool temperature inhibits their growth.
3. Low Maintenance
With Drinking Post, owners can say goodbye to frequent scrubbing and cleaning. The waterer’s design prevents algae buildup, saving time and reducing maintenance costs.
Algae growth in horse and livestock water is a significant concern due to its impact on water quality, animal health, and maintenance time. Drinking Post offers a solution by completely preventing algae growth and maintaining cool, fresh water. By investing in a Drinking Post, owners can ensure their animals always have access to clean, safe water, and enjoy the benefits of reduced maintenance and peace of mind. For more information, visit dpwaterer.com.
Contact us for more information about Drinking Post and how it can benefit your farm, visit our website at dpwaterer.com or contact us directly. Let us help you provide the best care for your horses and livestock.