Applied aspect of microalgae in monitoring of heavy metals

Abstract

Microalgae which forms the primary energy in any aquatic ecosystem plays great role in the food chain. Heavy metal enters into the aquatic system by the way of various anthropogenic, natural weathering, mining, smelting, and industrial activities. The transport of heavy metals into algae comprises two phases: metabolism-independent phase (enter via surface binding of physicochemical nature into cell) and a metabolism-dependent phase (metal ions are transported from one side to the other of the cell membrane to the cell). Metal sorption by algal cells may be influenced by many environmental factors such as pH, temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, etc. Heavy metal affects the growth and physiology of algae either by attaching to sulfhydryl group proteins or the distraction of protein structure. Modifications in cell size or morphology are general symptoms of heavy metal toxicity in microalgae. However luxurious growth and bioconcentration of heavy metals indicate the use of microalgae in bioremediation. With the benefits of large accumulation capacity and no other secondary pollution, growth of unknown species in natural habitat, algae are very promising for monitoring the wastewater containing heavy metals.