Potential bioremediation of lead (Pb) using marine microalgae nannochloropsis oculata

Abstract

The lead (Pb) contamination that occursin waters brings a detrimental effect on human life. As one of the most significant natural resources widely used, the exposure of the waters with lead harms the human body system in terms of increasing risk disease factors, such as cancer, stroke, memory problems, as considerable as high blood pressure. One of the alternative solutions for this issue is utilizing microalgae as a bioremediation agent. This study investigated the bioremediation potential of Pb using marine microalgae Nannochloropsis oculata. This comparative study used five types of water samples with different lead levels ranging from 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, 1.1, to 1.3 ppm. Data were analyzed by calculating the percentage efficiency of Pb absorption by N. oculata. The results showed that within seven days of culture, the higher the Pb level dissolved in the water, the higher the efficiency of Pb absorption by N. oculata. Thus, it can be concluded that N. oculata can be a bioremediation agent for Pb, which contaminates the waters.