Abstract
Didymosphenia geminata diatoms, or Didymo, was first found to be an invasive species that could have negative impacts on the environment due to the aggressive growth of its polysaccharide-based stalks. The stalks’ adhesive properties have prompted park officials to alert the general public to limit further spread and contamination of this algae to other bodies of water. Although the negative effects of Didymo have been studied in the past, recent studies have demonstrated a potential positive side to this alga. One of the potential benefits includes the structural component of the polysaccharide stalks. The origin of the polysaccharides within stalks remains unknown; however, they can be useful in a waste management and agricultural setting. The primary purpose of this study was to describe both the harmful and beneficial nature of Didymo. Important outcomes include findings related to its application in various fields such as medicine and technology. These polysaccharides can be isolated and studied closely to produce efficient solar power cells and batteries. Though they may be harmful while uncontained in nature, they appear to be very useful in the technological and medical advancement of our society.
Highlights
Didymosphenia geminata, commonly known as Didymo, is a relatively new alga that has been found to affect stream systems throughout the world
Polysaccharide-based stalks of Didymo are reinforced with unique calcitic nanofibers [1]; the cell is still made of biosilica
In terms of the negative effects that Didymo can have on the environment, several studies have focused on the impact that D. geminata has on native species and biodiversity in different regions
Summary
Didymosphenia geminata, commonly known as Didymo, is a relatively new alga that has been found to affect stream systems throughout the world. Polysaccharide-based stalks of Didymo are reinforced with unique calcitic nanofibers [1]; the cell is still made of biosilica Didymo is able to cover areas over 20 km and can be present in streams for many months This causes disturbance in the benthic regions and does not allow for the growth of other algae. It was during this time that a connection fishermen’s boots contaminating more of an area than normal [6]. If the benefits of Didymo appear outweigh its its disadvantages, more research should be devoted to how to utilize these to polysaccharide stalks in industries outside of agriculture. Photo credit: Samantha Root [7]
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