A persistent issue with zebra mussels, microplastics from wastewater, E. coli concerns, and toxic algal blooms visible from space continues to trouble Lake Winnipeg, causing distress among Manitobans. Amid these well-known challenges, the focus is shifting towards a lesser-known microscopic aspect that could illuminate the future health of one of the largest freshwater basins in a warming world.
Professor Emily Chase, an internationally trained microbiologist and virologist at the University of Winnipeg, emphasizes the importance of understanding viruses that infect microalgae in Lake Winnipeg. Last summer, Chase initiated research on how viruses impact Lake Winnipeg’s microalgae, essential single-celled organisms known for forming problematic blue-green films containing harmful neuro-toxins.
Despite the negative connotations, microalgae are vital in the Lake Winnipeg food web, as they derive energy from the sun and serve as a crucial food source for various aquatic organisms, ultimately leading to the production of fish, like walleye, consumed by humans.
Climate change poses a significant threat to Lake Winnipeg’s ecosystem, potentially exacerbating issues such as toxic algal blooms. Understanding the role of viruses is key to comprehending the impact of climate change on the lake’s dynamics. Research suggests a link between viruses and algal bloom collapses, offering insights into mitigating water quality issues for recreational activities and fishing.
Drawing on her expertise in algae-virus interactions from previous work in the Mediterranean Sea, Chase returned to Canada from the U.S. to focus on climate change research. Comparisons with Lake Erie, which has seen significant changes due to diminishing ice cover, serve as a cautionary tale for Lake Winnipeg’s future, particularly regarding walleye stocks and tourism opportunities.
The research conducted by Chase and her team aims to bridge knowledge gaps in understanding the interplay between viruses, algae, and climate change, laying the groundwork for better preparation for potential ecological shifts in Lake Winnipeg. Scott Higgins, a senior research scientist, highlights the importance of Chase’s work in unraveling the complexities of algal blooms, viruses, and climate change dynamics, providing valuable insights for Manitoba’s environmental management strategies.
