Sub-indicator: Cladophora

Every three years the Great Lakes Executive Committee reports on the status of the Great Lakes' ecosystem based on 9 indicators and several sub-indicators. This sub-indicator technical report supports assessment of the Nutrients and Algae Indicator by evaluating the status of Cladophora and other benthic algae that can grow to nuisance levels. Based on established criteria, the overall status for Cladophora was poor, indicating overabundance. The status was also poor for Lakes Michigan, Erie, and Ontario; but fair for Lake Huron and good for Lake Superior.