Algae and Cyanobacteria Sensors for Water Monitoring
Protect ecosystems and water systems with advanced algae and cyanobacteria sensors built for rapid, accurate, and real-time detection. .
Real-Time Detection of Harmful Algal Blooms with Advanced Algae & Cyanobacteria Sensors
Algae and cyanobacteria sensors provide rapid, real-time monitoring of harmful algal blooms (HABs) and waterborne toxins in freshwater and marine environments. These smart optical sensors detect specific pigment signatures such as chlorophyll-a, phycocyanin, and phycoerythrin, offering early warning capabilities for water utilities, municipalities, and industries relying on water as a resource. Their deployment is vital in identifying changes in water quality before visible symptoms occur, reducing risks to human health, aquatic life, and infrastructure.
Water Quality Instruments, a B2B leader serving clients across North America, delivers sensor solutions that combine robust design, intelligent software, and cloud-based analytics. Our instruments are tailored for high-accuracy performance across a range of applications—from environmental monitoring and water treatment plants to industrial cooling systems and aquaculture operations. With a reputation built on product reliability and technical support, we help our clients detect threats early and act fast to maintain operational safety and environmental compliance.
Our Technology Partners & Product Ecosystem
Core Components of Sensor Systems
Hardware
- Submersible optical probes designed for harsh aquatic conditions offer robust performance under extreme environments. Integrated with Environmental & Agriculture Sensors for reliable aquatic ecosystem monitoring.
- Integrated sensors for chlorophyll-a, phycocyanin, and turbidity enable high-resolution biological detection. Powered by Optical & Imaging Sensors to ensure precision in spectral analysis.
- Autonomous and tethered options for fixed and mobile deployment provide flexibility in remote sensing applications. Enabled through NB-IoT End Devices for low-power, long-range communication.
- Ruggedized enclosures resistant to biofouling and corrosion ensure long-term durability in aquatic installations. Complemented by Zigbee Accessories that withstand harsh environmental conditions.
- GPS-enabled floating buoys for real-time spatial data mapping support dynamic geolocation of data sources. Backed by GPS IoT Trackers/Devices to deliver continuous, position-aware insights.
Software
- Real-time fluorescence and absorbance readings with alert thresholds
- Data visualization and trend analysis tools
- Customizable sampling intervals and sensor calibration profiles
- Easy integration with SCADA and data logging platforms
Cloud Services
- Remote access to multi-site sensor data
- Automated alerts for toxin level exceedance
- Continuous storage of historical data for analysis and reporting
- Secure dashboards for managing monitoring programs
Key Features and Functionalities
- Dual- and multi-channel pigment detection for species differentiation
- Continuous and autonomous data collection
- Anti-fouling measures such as mechanical wipers or UV cleaning
- Wireless or cellular telemetry for live data streaming
- Long-term deployment with low power consumption
- Modular design for easy sensor replacement and upgrades
Integrations and Compatibility
- Seamless integration with existing SCADA, telemetry, or water quality networks
- Compatible with remote sensing platforms and GIS systems
- Easily integrates with cloud analytics and IoT environmental monitoring platforms
- Interfaces with GAO RFID systems for asset tracking and system diagnostics
Benefits of Choosing Water Quality Instruments
Real-Time Response
Immediate alerts help mitigate risks early
Scalable Deployment
Suitable for single sites or regional networks
Reliable Performance
Built to withstand extreme aquatic environments
Regulatory Readiness
Designed to support public health and compliance mandates
Expert Support
Our team helps ensure proper setup, calibration, and maintenance
Applications
- Early detection of harmful algal blooms in lakes and reservoirs
- Monitoring recreational beaches for cyanotoxin threats
- Municipal drinking water source protection
- Aquaculture health and biomass optimization
- Industrial process water quality control
- Environmental research and field data collection
Industries Served
- Municipal Water Management
- Environmental Monitoring Agencies
- Aquaculture and Fisheries
- Agriculture and Irrigation
- Hydropower and Utilities
- Universities and Research Institutions
Relevant U.S. & Canadian Industry Standards and Regulations
- U.S. EPA Guidelines for Cyanobacteria and Cyanotoxins in Drinking Water
- Clean Water Act (CWA)
- National Water Quality Monitoring Council (NWQMC) Protocols
- Health Canada Guidelines for Recreational Water Quality
- Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) Water Quality Guidelines
GAO Case Studies
Canada – Regina, Saskatchewan
An industrial cooling facility integrated real-time algae sensors to monitor biofouling risks in its intake systems. The sensors triggered alerts that helped reduce manual inspections and optimized chemical dosing, leading to improved equipment efficiency and lower operational costs.
USA – Tampa, Florida
A coastal city implemented floating sensor buoys in its drinking water reservoirs. The system helped environmental teams monitor seasonal cyanobacteria blooms and prevented a shutdown of recreational beaches through timely interventions.
USA – Toledo, Ohio
Following harmful algal blooms affecting Lake Erie, a regional water treatment facility deployed algae sensors along intake lines. These sensors enabled operators to monitor rising toxin levels in real time and adjust treatment procedures proactively, ensuring uninterrupted and safe drinking water supply.
Contact Us
For more information on algae and cyanobacteria sensors or to schedule a consultation, Our team is ready to help you protect your water systems, reduce risk, and stay compliant with confidence
