Lake Bohinj faces anatoxin threat again

Lake Bohinj, a popular tourist destination in Slovenia, is facing a potential health risk due to the presence of toxic cyanobacteria. An analysis of floating algae samples from the lake has revealed the presence of genes responsible for synthesizing anatoxins, a potent neurotoxin.

This discovery echoes concerns from last year when several dogs became ill and died after contact with the lake's waters. The National Institute of Biology's team detected potentially toxic cyanobacteria in a sample of floating algae, confirming the presence of anatoxin synthesis genes. These toxins can affect the nervous system, causing symptoms within minutes to an hour of exposure.

While the institute emphasizes that anatoxins are primarily found within the algae and are released in minimal quantities into the surrounding water, making human swimming generally safe, they strongly advise against direct contact with the algae. This is particularly important for children, who might ingest algae while playing in the water. The institute recommends that parents consider not letting children swim if there's a risk of them consuming the algae.

For dog owners, the advice is similar: check for algae blooms before allowing pets to swim. If ingestion cannot be prevented, swimming should be avoided. If dogs exhibit symptoms like drooling, trembling, muscle cramps, or paralysis after swimming, immediate veterinary attention is crucial. The findings were announced on the Ciano SLO project's Facebook page, with experts having monitored the cyanobacteria levels on July 1st. Although no algae were found near the shore, floating clumps were observed about 10 meters offshore, appearing smaller than those seen last year.