haematococcus is a genus of algea.
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canada
Discoloring the water in your birdbath -- Haematococcus is a type of reddish or pinkish fresh water algae.Haematococcus, common polluter of birdbaths, probably does annoy at least some of the wildlife. Then again, probably not all that much. About semi-immortal and seemingly harmless chameleon-like algae, which is a fair to middling introductory description of Haematococcus pluvalis, birdbath division. Maybe it will eat fungus. Or absorb it, or something. Haematococcus pluvalis resembles an organic rust. When one scrapes it, dry and seemingly dead from the birdbath's bottom, it has yet some life left to it. It is in a state resembling dormancy. If one is so inclined, one can reach into one's home laboratory, grab a cover slip, put a sample of Haematococcus beneath it and add a bit of moisture. Through the microscope glass, one can then watch excitedly as Haematococcus perks right up.(see the related image link)
Birds? This species is well known for its high content of the strong antioxidant astaxanthin, that is important in aquaculture, various pharmaceuticals and cosmetics It is found in Bird baths
Algae thrive in warm temperatures (around 75-85°F) with plenty of sunlight and nutrients available. They also require still or slow-moving water with a slightly basic pH level for optimal growth. Too much heat or cold, excessive sunlight, or imbalanced nutrients can inhibit algae growth.