# Cyanobacterial Bloom and Toxin Identification in Austin, TX, USA Creeks

## TL;DR

This study found cyanobacterial blooms and toxins in Austin, TX creeks, highlighting potential risks to humans and wildlife.

## Contribution

The study provides new data on cyanobacterial blooms and toxin levels in urban waterways in Austin, TX.

## Key findings

- Cyanobacteria, primarily Oscillatoria, was detected in all sampled creeks.
- Cylindrospermopsin was the primary cyanotoxin identified, with levels varying by location and season.

## Abstract

Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs) can form in freshwater, and their toxins are harmful to flora and fauna, including humans. To assess the extent of cyanoHABs in urban waterways, seven creeks and Lady Bird Lake in Austin, TX USA were sampled from July to December 2024. Water chemistry was measured, cyanoHABs identified by microscopy, and cyanotoxins detected by LC-MS. Cyanobacteria, mostly genus
Oscillatoria
, was detected in all creeks sampled, and the primary cyanotoxin detected was cylindrospermopsin with levels varying between sampling locations and seasons. This study highlights the presence of cyanoHABs in creeks, and the potential risk they may pose.