Control of Microcystis aeruginosa TH01109 with batangas mandarin skin and dwarf banana peel

Abstract

We studied the inhibitory effects of batangas mandarin skin and dwarf banana peel on Microcystis aeruginosa. In laboratory assays, algal growth was significantly inhibited by the addition of mandarin skin extract (0.1% w/v). When the concentration of mandarin skin increased to 0.5% (w/v), no algal growth was detected, whereas in the presence of banana peel extract (0.5%, w/v) the algal biomass was only slightly suppressed. The results show that mandarin skin has higher anti-algal activity than banana peel. Fresh unprocessed mandarin skin and banana peel showed very effective anti-algal activity. Pre-treatment was not required for their anti-algal activity. It is possible that mandarin skin and banana peel might be effective material to control harmful algal blooms.