Blue-Green Algae Can Remove Lead from Water

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Blue-Green Algae Can Remove Lead from Water

Science & Technology
Blue-Green Algae Can Remove Lead from Water

Scientists at IIT Guwahati develop a biological material using cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that removes lead from contaminated water. The material uses exopolysaccharides (EPS) secreted by algae, and reported efficiency figures make it relevant as a current environment and water-cleaning development.

Cyanobacteria EPS Biomaterial for Lead Removal:

Dimension Key Details
Cyanobacteria: habitats Cyanobacteria are commonly found in ponds, lakes, reservoirs, paddy fields, and slow-moving fresh water bodies.
Material used The material comprises exopolysaccharides (EPS), a sticky, sugar-rich substance secreted by algae.
EPS mechanism EPS molecules naturally bind lead, and algae adjust their composition to trap and hold lead particles.
Efficiency EPS can remove 66.2% of lead from contaminated water.
Lead: description in article Lead is described as one of the most toxic heavy metals present in water.
Additional benefits of cyanobacteria Cyanobacteria form cyanolichens with fungi, enrich soil, fix nitrogen as a natural biofertiliser, and boost agricultural productivity.
Conventional methods listed Traditional methods include chemical precipitation, membrane filtration, and ion exchange, and these are described as costly, energy-intensive, and polluting.
Biological approaches: characterisation Biological approaches provide greener, renewable, and eco-friendly alternatives.
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Q 1 / 2

With reference to cyanobacteria, consider the following statements:

1. Cyanobacteria can form cyanolichens with fungi.
2. Cyanobacteria are described as fixing nitrogen as a natural biofertiliser.
3. Cyanobacteria are described as exclusively marine organisms.

Which of the statements given above are correct?