Abstract
The application of synthetic algaecides for the control of algae produces by-products that are sometimes toxic to the environment. There is a need for natural and cheap alternatives to synthetic algaecides. In the present study, we investigated the potential of aqueous crude extract of Azadirachta indica to inhibit the growth of Scenedesmus quadricauda. Phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of groups of bioactive compounds that are capable of inhibiting microalgal growth. Chlorophyll a concentration, dry weight production and cell density of microalga decreased with increasing crude extract concentration. After three days of exposure, the 1000 mg/L extract concentration resulted in complete growth inhibition and cell lysis. Furthermore, the ability of S. quadricauda to form multi-celled coenobial structures was compromised in a concentration dependent manner. In general, catalase and peroxidase activities of the microalga were upregulated with increasing extract concentration. These results imply that aqueous neem extract may provide a cheap and ecofriendly alternative for the control of microalgae in aquatic ecosystems.
Highlights
The excessive proliferation of cyanobacteria and algae in aquatic ecosystems is controlled by factors such as nutrient composition and concentration, light quality, temperature, water residence time and interspecific competition between phytoplankton groups (Paerl & Huisman 2009)
We investigated the potential of aqueous crude extract of Azadirachta indica to inhibit the growth of Scenedesmus quadricauda
This study explores the potential of aqueous leaf extract of Azadirachta indica as an eco-friendly and cost effective means of controlling algal growth, using Scenedesmus quadricauda as the test organism
Summary
The excessive proliferation of cyanobacteria and algae in aquatic ecosystems is controlled by factors such as nutrient composition and concentration, light quality, temperature, water residence time and interspecific competition between phytoplankton groups (Paerl & Huisman 2009). Chlorophytes on their own are not considered to be nuisance algae, nutrient enriched conditions favour the excessive proliferation of members of this group (Paerl et al 2001). Mathias Ahii Chia, Jamiu Taiwo Akinsanmi, Yahuza Tanimu and Zakari Ladan of toxic residues in aquatic organisms, as well as killing of untargeted aquatic flora and fauna (Su et al 2011) This necessitates the exploration for cheap biological and environmentally friendly means of tackling this problem. The objective of this study was to determine the algicidal effect of aqueous neem extract on Scenedesmus quadricauda
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