Lake Winnipeg, the famed freshwater basin in Manitoba, faces a multitude of environmental challenges, including zebra mussels, microplastics from wastewater, E. coli concerns, and toxic algal blooms visible from space. Amid these well-known issues, a lesser-explored aspect is drawing attention – the role of viruses infecting microalgae in the lake’s ecosystem.
Professor Emily Chase, a microbiologist and virologist at the University of Winnipeg, highlights the significance of understanding the viral infections of microalgae in comprehending Lake Winnipeg’s health. Last summer, Chase initiated research on how viruses interact with Lake Winnipeg microalgae, essential single-celled organisms crucial to the lake’s food web.
Microalgae, often criticized for forming blue-green films in the lake containing harmful neuro-toxins, are pivotal in harnessing solar energy and sustaining the ecosystem. These microscopic organisms serve as a fundamental link in the food chain, supporting a cascade of life from filter feeders to walleye fish, a favorite catch for anglers.
Climate change poses a looming threat to Lake Winnipeg, potentially exacerbating the imbalance in the ecosystem. With warmer waters and extended summers, the conditions become more favorable for toxic algal blooms, disrupting recreational activities and commercial fishing. Understanding the role of viruses is crucial in predicting the lake’s future under changing climate conditions.
While agricultural runoff and wastewater contribute significantly to algal blooms, viruses’ influence on broader lake dynamics remains a subject of ongoing research. Chase and her peers suspect viruses may play a role in the collapse of algal blooms, potentially restoring water quality for various lake users.
Drawing on her expertise from Mediterranean Sea research, Chase warns that Lake Erie’s dwindling ice cover may foreshadow challenges for Lake Winnipeg. The disappearance of Lake Erie’s ice could lead to adverse consequences for its ecosystem, affecting fish stocks and tourism opportunities.
Scott Higgins, a senior research scientist, emphasizes the importance of understanding the interplay between viruses, algae, and climate change for Lake Winnipeg’s future resilience. The ongoing research aims to bridge existing knowledge gaps and prepare Manitoba for potential environmental shifts in the coming years.