Golden algae suspected in fish kill

This past weekend, approximately 250 dead fish were discovered floating on the surface of Pacana Park lake.

City staff immediately notified the Glennwilde homeowners association. In addition, staff contacted Gilbert-based H2ology, the company that maintains the lake, to take water samples for testing.

Monday morning, staff received the water test results.

The PH, ammonia and aeration levels are normal. While a test for golden algae came back negative, H2ology suspects that may be the cause.

Even an undetected trace amount of golden algae may be present in the lake. Golden algae produce a toxin that ruptures fish gills, which suffocates the fish.

The algae are not harmful to humans or any animals without gills.