Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

Which type of algae is rarely observed in treatment ponds?

1. Green

2. Blue-green

3. Red

4. Brown

The correct answer is: Red

The type of algae that is rarely observed in treatment ponds is red algae. In the context of wastewater treatment, the most common types of algae found in treatment ponds are green and blue-green algae. These types of algae thrive in the nutrient-rich environment of wastewater and are essential to the natural processes that help in breaking down organic material. Red algae, on the other hand, typically inhabit marine environments and are not well-suited to the conditions found in treatment ponds. They often require different light conditions and salinity levels than what is provided in most wastewater treatment settings. Thus, their presence in treatment ponds is uncommon, making red algae the correct answer in this context. Brown algae, while also not prevalent in treatment ponds, can be found in different aquatic environments but still less so than the dominant green and blue-green types.