Algal Samples Research Articles

Радиоэкологические исследования в районе архипелага Земля Франца-Иосифа в августе и сентябре 2023 года

The results of a study of the current activity of technogenic isotopes in the coastal zone of the Alexandra Land island of the Franz Josef Land archipelago are presented. Samples of sea water, algae, bottom sediments, soil and vegetation were taken during an expedition carried out under the auspices of the Northern Fleet and the Russian Geographical Society in August and September 2023. In the marine environment and littoral macrophytes, the content of technogenic 137Cs is gradually decreasing in comparison with the indicators of the previous period 2000–2010. In the terrestrial ecosystem, the distribution 137Cs is mosaic; the highest specific activity is found in soils (up to 71.4 Bq/kg). In single samples, the presence of the short-lived isotope 134Cs was noted, which is an indicator of relatively recent atmospheric fallout in the Arctic.

Survival strategies of microalgae in response to fluctuating brine environments in Saroma-ko Lagoon sea ice, Hokkaido, Japan.

This study investigated the changes in sea ice temperature, microalgae species distribution, shape changes, and photosynthetic activity observed in the first-year ice that forms in winter in Saroma-ko Lagoon, Hokkaido, Japan. Temperatures at the bottom of the ice remained constant at -1.7°C, near the freezing point, while they varied between -6 and -1°C with diel fluctuations at the surface layer. Carefully collected algal samples showed high photosynthetic quantum yield and acclimation to the light intensities of individual ice layers; this indicates that the algal photosynthetic activity responds to dynamic changes in the ice environment, such as variations in temperature, salinity, and brine space. The algal communities consisted of more than 95% diatoms. Smaller algal cells were distributed in the upper layer of the sea ice compared to the lower layers. Chaetoceros sp., the dominant small-cell species, was evenly distributed throughout the layers. In contrast, Detonula confervacea, the dominant large-cell species, was unevenly distributed in the lower layer, with smaller colony size and cell volume in the upper layer. The shape differences observed in this species were thought to be a response to the changing environment within the first-year sea ice.

Production and optimization of biofuels from locally isolated algal biomass: Strategies for circular economy integration

In the present study, we investigated the potential of locally isolated algal strains as alternative energy sources for sustainable biofuel production. The focus of this study was to identify algal strains that are capable of accumulating oils rich in essential fatty acids. Algal samples were collected from different areas and 14 isolates were obtained. Among the various pretreatment methods tested, hydrothermal pretreatment using sulfuric acid at 95 °C yielded the best results, with sample IIB-14 containing more than 2% reducing sugars. These sugars were then used for fermentation with the S. cerevisiae strain, resulting in an ethanol concentration of 3.52% ± 0.2%. This holistic approach contributes to the development of low-cost and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional energy sources. While algal biofuels offer a promising substitute for fossil fuels, further advancements are needed before they can be widely adopted in the fuel market. Among these, isolates IIB-8 and IIB-9 showed the highest oil yields of 22.84% and 24.69% (w/w), respectively. The specific environmental settings for optimal growth of these strains were determined, and the physicochemical parameters of the oils, including iodine value, viscosity, density, acid value, saponification value, unsaponifiable mass, and peroxide value, were analyzed. The transesterification of oils into fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) revealed the presence of significant amounts of fatty acids, including EPA, DHA, and linoleic acid. Moreover, the study also explored the potential of algal biomass for bioethanol production, addressing the sustainability concerns of renewable energy supplies. Hydrothermal pretreatment using sulfuric acid at 95 °C yielded the highest concentration of reducing sugars (>2%) in IIB-14. Sugar extracted from algal biomass was used for fermentation. The Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain used for the fermentation process yielded an ethanol concentration of 3.52% ± 0.2%. This holistic approach contributes to the development of low-cost and environment-friendly alternatives to renewable energy sources. Algal biofuels may offer a practical substitute for fossil fuels, but there is still a long way to go before they can enter the fuel market and are widely used.

COSMARIUM TAXICHONDRIFORME EICHLER & GUTWINSKI 1895 – THE FOURTH RECORD OF A RARE DESMID (ZYGNEMATOPHYCEAE, STREPTOPHYTA) IN CHERNIHIV POLESIE

Purpose. Adding new distribution and microphotographs of a rare taxon of the genus Cosmarium found in a small pond in Chernihiv Polesie. Review of the history of this taxon study in Ukraine and its taxonomy, infraspecific taxa characters are compared discussed. Methodology. The new locality of C. taxichondriforme is situated at the border of the landscape reserve of national significance "Zamglai" that is one of the largest eutrophic swamps in the Chernihiv Polesie. During the field research of the Zamglai bog complex, algal samples were collected from a small pond (2000 м2) situated along the road to Hrybova Rudnia village from route E95, at the distance of 1,8 km village and 0.8 km from the route. The samples were fixed with 4 % formalin for further study in laboratory conditions; pH and electrical conductivity of water were measured with a portable pH and conductivity meter. Microscopic examination of the samples was carried out using a light microscope equipped with a camera for taking microphotos. Identification manuals and monographs of the leading Ukrainian (Palamar-Mordvintseva, 1986, 2005) and European desmidiologists (Lenzenweger, 1999) were used for species identification. The iconotype provided in the original description of the newly recorded taxon (Eichler &Gutwiński, 1895) was used. Scientific novelty. The fourth record in the Ukrainian desmidioflora and a new locality in Chernihiv Polesie of a rare taxon from the genus Cosmarium is documented. Previously it was discovered 26 years ago (Palamar-Mordvitseva & Shindanovina, 1998) in Soseske bog nearby Olyshivka village Chernihiv rayon and oblast. This is the first publication of Ukrainian cells microphotographs. Conclusions. All records of this taxon in Ukraine are in Chernihiv Polesie. We hope this publication will provide good illustrative and informative basis for further findings of C. taxichondriforme in other regions of Ukraine. Sampling small water bodies should not be neglected.

Chemical composition and nutrient profiles of nine red macroalgae species

Nine red macroalgae (Amphiroa rigida, Gracilaria bursa-pastoris, Gracilaria gracilis, Grateloupia torture, Jania rubens, Laurencia obtusa, Laurencia pyramidalis, Liagora viscida, and Pterocladiella capillaries) were collected from coastal waters of Türkiye, and their proximate, fatty acid, soluble carbohydrate, and mineral profiles were investigated in the present study. According to the results, the crude protein content of the samples was between 4% and 23.8%, and four of the samples (G. turuturu, L. obtusa, L. pyramidalis, and P. capillacea) contained more than 10% protein. The crude lipid content of all the samples was below 1.6%, and the total carbohydrate content was between 38.3% and 76.9%. The macroalgae samples were generally richer in saturated fatty acids, palmitic acid being the most abundant, whereas G. gracilis had the highest content of unsaturated fatty acids (55.8%). All samples exhibited high contents of myo-inositol or glucose. Also, the samples generally had a good composition of minerals. Still, the heavy metal (i.e., Pb and Cd) content of Gracilaria gracilis was higher (59.6 µg/kg, P < 0.05) than those of the other algae samples. This study provides valuable insight into the chemical composition and fatty acid, mineral, and soluble carbohydrate profiles of Amphiroa rigida, Gracilaria bursa-pastoris, Gracilaria gracilis, Grateloupia turuturu, Jania rubens, Laurencia obtusa, Laurencia pyramidalis, Liagora viscida, and Pterocladiella capillacea from Türkiye.Graphical

Algal diversity and its relationship with seasonal variation of water quality in Gajedi Lake, Rupandehi District (Nepal)

The current study focuses on the algal diversity of Gajedi Lake in different seasons in connection to the lake's water quality indicators. Algae and water samples were collected from eight peripheral sites of the lake in summer, rainy, and winter seasons in 2021. The water temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids, hardness, alkalinity, phosphorus, free CO2, and dissolved oxygen were recorded as high during the summer season while water pH was high during the rainy season. Altogether 93 species of algae were reported under 52 genera, 30 families, 7 classes and 6 phyla in this study. The largest phylum was Bacillariophyta (44.08%) followed by Chlorophyta (17.20%), Euglenozoa (10.97%), Cyanobacteria (12.90%), Charophyta (10.75%) and Miozoa (1.07%). The Shannon-Weiner diversity index indicated high abundance during the summer season, with more evenly distributed algal species. More algal species were recorded in the winter season. Trachelomonas, Navicula, and Nitzschia were dominant genera during summer; Anagostidinema, Desmodesmus, and Pinnularia were dominant during rainy; and Trachelomonas, Tetradesmus, and Gomphonema were dominant during winter. The redundancy analysis ordination showed that the algal composition varied along with the seasonal changes in physico-chemical parameters. Temperature, pH, and conductivity were thus identified as significant factors influencing species richness.

Investigation of the effect of specific gravity and pH on the fermentation period of a single and combined algae species as a potential bioethanol feedstock

Algae has garnered significant attention as a promising biomass source for bioethanol production and as a solution to sustainability issues. Nevertheless, the disruption of complex carbohydrates required for yeast fermentation occurs during algae cultivation. The fermentation process, which is critical for producing bioethanol as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative fuel, may be improved by meticulously managing the parameters that influence fermentation, such as specific gravity and pH. Bioethanol was produced from algae species (Navicula sp., Oscillatoria sp. and diatoms) using simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) processes. A control, single and combined algal species were prepared in the following formation: Oscillatoria sp. and Navicula sp. (sample A), Oscillatoria sp. (sample B), diatom and Oscillatoria sp. (sample C), Navicula sp. (sample D), and diatoms, Navicula sp. and Oscillatoria sp (sample E). The daily bioethanol concentrations in the fermentation medium were measured using a digital optical refractometer, and a Two-way ANOVA analysis (p < 0.05) was conducted to determine the differences between the period of fermentation and the bioethanol concentration. Additionally, the pH and specific gravity were assessed. The Two-way ANOVA analysis conducted indicated that the F-values surpassed the F-critical values and the p-values were all notably below 0.05, suggesting a statistically significant distinction between the samples in their fermentation periods and bioethanol concentration. The highest concentration was observed in sample E at 39.53 g/L, followed by samples C and D at 37.36 g/L, samples A and B at 35.10 g/L, and the control at 4.78 g/L. The findings showed that mixed cultures could potentially improve ethanol yield. The optimal fermentation period was determined to be 72 h. The pH levels in the control and algae samples varied between 6.5 and 6.7 and 7.06 to 8.42, respectively. The specific gravity in the control and algae samples ranged from 1.003 to 1.004 and 1.023 to 1.037, respectively. During algae fermentation, specific gravity initially increased, then stabilized before decreasing. pH levels correlated with fermentation duration. Understanding these factors is crucial for maximizing bioethanol production. This discovery could lead to exploring how different algae species interact to improve cultivation methods.

Parabens, bisphenols, and triclosan in coral polyps, algae, and sediments from sanya, China: Occurrence, profiles, and environmental implications

Parabens, bisphenols (BPs), and triclosan (TCS) are common environmental phenols widely applied in industrial products, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. They are endocrine disruptors and pervade the natural environment, causing significant detrimental impacts on ecosystems, including marine habitats. Therefore, in this study, 40 samples comprising coral polyps, algae, and sediments were collected from Sanya, Hainan Province, China, in which the presence and compositional profiles of parabens, BPs, and TCS were examined to identify their fate in the oceans. The results unveiled the ubiquitous occurrence of at least one paraben or bisphenol in all samples, with TCS detected in over 80% of cases. Notably, coral samples contained the most contaminants (median concentration: 9.42 ng/g dry weight-dw), followed by sediment samples (5.95 ng/g dw) and algal samples (3.58 ng/g dw). Attributed to their broadest application, methylparaben (MeP) and propylparaben (PrP) emerged as the primary paraben constituents. MeP displayed the highest median concentration in coral samples (4.42 ng/g dw), probably related to its high-water solubility and the filtration mechanism employed by the coral polyps during seawater intake. Intriguingly, bisphenol P (BPP) superseded bisphenol A (BPA) as the dominant bisphenol, especially in the algal samples, probably owing to the lipophilic character of BPP and the enhanced biodegradability of BPA within aquatic environments. The highest concentration of TCS (3.44 ng/g dw) was found in the sediment samples, associated with its long half-life in the sediments. Furthermore, the correlation between multiple parabens and TCS implies their co-use to augment antimicrobial efficacy. Future research should prioritize the examination of these phenols in diverse marine environmental media. Corresponding toxicological experiments should be conducted to visualize their transport dynamics, degradation byproducts, and toxicity to marine biota to gain insights into the risks they pose to the marine ecosystem.

Unprecedented Harmful algal bloom in the UK and Ireland’s largest lake associated with gastrointestinal bacteria, microcystins and anabaenopeptins presenting an environmental and public health risk

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are outbreaks of aquatic toxic microalgae emerging as a global problem driven by nutrient enrichment, global climate change and invasive species. We uniquely describe a HAB of unprecedented duration, extent and magnitude during 2023 in Lough Neagh; the UK and Ireland’s largest freshwater lake, using an unparalleled combination of satellite imagery, nutrient analysis, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and cyanotoxin profiling. The causative agent Microcystis aeruginosa accounted for over a third of DNA in water samples though common bacterioplankton species also bloomed. Water phosphate levels were hypertrophic and drove local algal biomass. The HAB pervaded the entire ecosystem with algal mats accumulating around jetties, marinas and lock gates. Over 80 % of bacterial DNA isolated from algal mat samples consisted of species associated with wildfowl or livestock faeces and human-effluent wastewater including 13 potential pathogens that can cause serious human illness including: E. coli, Salmonella, Enterobacter and Clostridium among others. Ten microcystins, nodularin and two anabaenopeptin toxins were confirmed as present (with a further microcystin and four anabaenopeptins suspected), with MC-RR and -LR in high concentrations at some locations (1,137–18,493 μg/L) with MC-LR exceeding World Health Organisation (WHO) recreational exposure guidelines in all algal mats sampled. This is the first detection of anabaenopeptins in any waterbody on the island of Ireland. Notwithstanding the ecological impacts, this HAB represented an environmental and public health risk, curtailing recreational activities in-and-around the lake and damaging local businesses. Reducing agricultural runoff and discharge from human-effluent wastewater treatment to manage nutrient loading, and the public health risk, should be the top priority of stakeholders, especially government. Key recommendations include Nature-based Solutions that avoid conflict with the productivity and profitability of the farming sector enhancing sustainability. We hope this stimulates real-world action to resolve the problems besetting this internationally important ecosystem.

Comparison of arsenic adsorption efficiency between macroalgae and seagrass on the shorelines of Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia

The aim of this study was to measure consequences of the arsenic pollution released from a sewage treatment plant into the seawater in Jazan province in the southwest of Saudi Arabia. The impact of the release of arsenic on the ecosystem is the adsorption of arsenic by sea plants. To do so, samples were collected alongside a distance of seven kilometers from the treatment plant. The algae samples: Sargassum sp., Cladophora sp., and seagrasses: Halodule uninervis and Cymodocea rotunda were digested in nitric acid, and the assays of arsenic levels were taken by ICP-AES according to EPA methods. The results showed that algae are more efficient than seagrass with absorbing arsenic. Also, the treatment plant was not the only source of arsenic contamination, as ships and boats were adding more arsenic to the ecosystem.

Evaluation of the ecological risks on green macro-algae spp. (Ulva fusciata) at the north western coast of Egypt, using neutron activation technique

The study used the radio-analytical technique (Neutron Activation Analysis), besides the other advanced chemical technique, which was inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), in order to evaluate the bioaccumulation factor (BF), of different trace elements inside the collected green macro algal samples. The results showed that BF results were based on the algal selectivity of each analyzed trace element. The study recommended the using of Ulva fasciata, as a bio-filter of nuclear cooling water system (mitigation tool), due to its selective absorption ability for certain trace elements such as; Th, Cs &Sr.

High throughput compressive fluorescence lifetime imaging with a silicon photomultiplier detector.

Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) is a powerful technique for studying biological processes. There exists a growing interest in developing strategies to enhance throughput and reduce acquisition time of FLIM systems, which commonly employ laser scanning excitation and time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC) detection. In this work, we propose a wide-field FLIM microscope based on compressive sensing and high photon rate detection (beyond pile-up limit) based on a high-efficiency silicon photomultiplier detector as a single-pixel camera. We experimentally validate the capabilities of this design achieving 20 frames per second FLIM images on free-moving green algae sample.

Isolation of Caribbean Ciguatoxin-5 (C-CTX5) and confirmation of its structure by NMR spectroscopy

Ciguatera poisoning occurs throughout subtropical and tropical regions globally. The Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea is a known hyperendemic region for ciguatera and has been associated with Caribbean ciguatoxin (C-CTX) contamination in fish. An algal C-CTX (C-CTX5) was identified in Gambierdiscus silvae and G. caribeaus isolated from benthic algal samples collected in waters south of St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. The highest CTX-producing isolate, G. silvae 1602 SH-6, was grown at large-scale to isolate sufficient C-CTX5 for structural confirmation by NMR spectroscopy. A series of orthogonal extraction and fractionation procedures resulted in purification of approximately 40 μg of C-CTX5, as estimated by quantitative NMR. A suite of 1D and 2D NMR experiments were acquired that verified the structure originally proposed for C-CTX5. The structural confirmation and successful isolation of C-CTX5 opens the way for work on the stability, toxicology and biotransformation of C-CTXs, as well as for the production of quantitative reference materials for analytical method development and validation. The strategies developed for purification of C-CTX5 may also apply to isolation and purification of CTXs from the Pacific Ocean and other regions.

Microplastic identification in marine environments: A low-cost and effective approach based on transmitted light measurements

Microplastics have become a significant concern for the well-being of marine ecosystems. Small fragments of plastic debris are released into the environment from both the direct disposal of plastic products and the deterioration of larger items. Ingestion of microplastics by marine life can result in detrimental effects, including physical harm and the accumulation of toxic chemicals in their tissues. The aim of this research is to design a compact and cost-effective measurement system for effectively detecting and quantifying microplastics in marine environments. The proposed system uses a 2.4-inch liquid-crystal display (LCD) panel and a digital USB microscope, both of which are connected to a single-board computer, with a dedicated python-based graphical user interface (GUI). Specifically, the light transmitted through plastic and organic samples was measured in order to identify and classify them. Various types of materials, such as polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyethylene, and organic algae samples, were tested and the metrological performance of the system has been estimated. The transmittance of the samples analyzed was primarily influenced by their opacity and thickness. In general, thicker materials exhibited significantly lower transmittance values. This trend was particularly evident in organic components and opaque plastic samples, where transmittance was significantly low. In addition, the experimental results suggest that the colour of the material also affects transmittance, although as a secondary factor. The employed technique could be used to identify and distinguish samples based on material properties, thereby allowing the proposed system to be a valuable tool for further research on microplastics in marine environments.

Genomic and functional insights of a mucin foraging Rhodopirellula halodulae sp. nov.

Nine novel strains were obtained from various algal and seagrass samples. The analysis of the 16S rRNA gene-based phylogenetic tree revealed monophyletic placement of all novel strains within the Rhodopirellula genus. The type strain was identified as JC737T, which shared 99.1 % 16S rRNA gene sequence identity with Rhodopirellula baltica SH1T, while strain JC740 was designated as an additional strain. The genome sizes of strains JC737T and JC740 were 6.6 and 6.7 Mb, respectively, and the G + C content was 56.2 %. The strains cladded distinctly in the phylogenomic tree, and the ANI and dDDH values of the strain JC737T were 75.8–76.1 % and 20.8–21.3 %, respectively, in comparison to other Rhodopirellula members. The strain demonstrated a versatile degradation capability, exhibiting a diverse array of complex polysaccharides, including mucin which had not been previously identified within the members of the phylum Planctomycetota. The phylogenomic, pan-genomic, morphological, physiological, and genomic characterization of the strain lead to the proposal to describe the strain as Rhodopirellula halodulae sp. nov.

Efficacy of aqueous and alcoholic formulations extracted from Padina boryana algae against Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae: A comparative study

AbstractAedes aegypti is a mosquito species known for transmitting several diseases, with dengue fever being of utmost importance. Controlling the spread of dengue fever remains a significant global health challenge. Other diseases transmitted by Ae. aegypti include Zika virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever. Padina boryana algae were collected from the Red Sea coast south of Jeddah to evaluate the effectiveness of its alcoholic and aqueous extracts against Ae. aegypti mosquito larvae. The algae sample was washed, dried in the shade, processed, and subjected to aqueous and alcohol extraction using a rotary evaporator. The resulting extracts were tested for their larvicidal activity against Ae. aegypti mosquito larvae using standard bioassay techniques. The larval mortality rates were recorded, and the lethal concentration (LC50 and LC90) values were calculated.The results revealed that both the aqueous and alcoholic extracts of P. boryana algae exhibited significant larvicidal activity against Ae. aegypti mosquito larvae. However, the alcoholic formulation demonstrated higher efficacy compared to the aqueous formulation. The LC50 values for the alcoholic and aqueous extracts were 194.8 and 195.7 ppm, respectively. The LC90 values for both extracts were 653.1 and 656.7 ppm, respectively. This indicates the effectiveness of Padina extracts as an effective pesticide against the larvae of the Ae. aegypti mosquito. Overall, the alcohol extract showed promising efficacy, indicating its potential as a significant component in developing effective mosquito control strategies.

Efficient acid hydrolysis for compound-specific δ15N analysis of amino acids for determining trophic positions

Compound-specific isotope analysis of nitrogen in amino acids (CSIA-AA, δ15NAA) has gained increasing popularity for elucidating energy flow within food chains and determining the trophic positions of various organisms. However, there is a lack of research on the impact of hydrolysis conditions, such as HCl concentration and hydrolysis time, on δ15NAA analysis in biota samples. In this study, we investigated two HCl concentrations (6 M and 12 M) and four hydrolysis times (2 h, 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h) for hydrolyzing and derivatizing AAs in reference materials (Tuna) and biological samples of little egret (n = 4), night heron (n = 4), sharpbelly (n = 4) and Algae (n = 1) using the n-pivaloyl-iso-propyl (NPIP) ester approach. A Dowex cation exchange resin was used to purify amino acids before derivatization. We then determined δ15NAA values using gas chromatography-combustion-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC-C-IRMS). The results revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in δ15NAA values among samples treated with different HCl concentrations or hydrolysis times, particularly for δ15NGlx (range: 21.0–23.5‰) and δ15NPhe (range: 4.3–5.4‰) in Tuna (12 M). Trophic positions (TPs) calculated based on δ15NAA at 2 h (little egret: 2.9 ± 0.1, night heron: 2.8 ± 0.1, sharpbelly: 2.0 ± 0.1 and Algae: 1.3 ± 0.2) were consistent with those at 24 h (3.1 ± 0.1, 2.8 ± 0.1, 2.2 ± 0.1 and 1.1 ± 0.1, respectively), suggesting that a 2-h hydrolysis time and a 6 M HCl concentration are efficient pretreatment conditions for determining δ15NAA and estimating TP. Compared to the currently used hydrolysis conditions (24 h, 6 M), the proposed conditions (2 h, 6 M) accelerated the δ15NAA assay, making it faster, more convenient, and more efficient. Further research is needed to simplify the operational processes and reduce the time costs, enabling more efficient applications of CSIA-AA.

Two-Dimensional Thin-Layer Chromatography as an Accessible, Low-Cost Tool for Lipid-Class Profile Screening

The interest in lipid composition profiling is significantly increasing as research reveals the immense importance of lipids in medicine, plant science, food and agriculture. However, lipidomic analysis requires high-end specialty equipment. We used two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography (2D-TLC) as a readily available, low-cost tool for basic lipidomic profiling of lipid classes in algal samples in the models Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, Auxenochlorella protothecoides, and Euglena gracilis, validating lipid class identification using an LC-MS/MS analysis. Algal lipid extracts were separated on a 2D-TLC plate, and TLC analysis was followed by scraping individual TLC spots off the plate, and a subsequent liquid chromatography separation and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. For comparison, crude lipid extracts were also injected directly to the LC-MS/MS system. Lipid class annotation was achieved by a combination of accurate mass, retention time information, neutral loss and fragment ion analysis by MS2Analyzer, and by matching spectra to LipidBlast MS/MS library. Overall, we were able to identify 15 lipid classes, and to adequately profile the lipid classes in all three organisms. This TLC method is thus suggested as an accessible tool for lipid class profiling of algal, plant, and food lipids, alike, when a rapid and simple analysis is required, e.g., for screening purposes.

COSMARIUM RETUSIFORME VAR. INCRASSATUM GUTWIŃSKI 1890 (ZYGNEMATOPHYCEAE, STREPTOPHYTA) – NEW RECORD OF RARE DESMID IN UKRAINE

Purpose. Adding a new taxon of the genus Cosmarium to the desmids flora of Chernihiv Polesie. Methodology. The landscape reserve of national significance “Zamglai” is one of the largest eutrophic swamps in the Chernihiv Polesie, which is an important refugium of hydrophilic phytodiversity of the forest zone, a place of concentration of a number of rare species of the boreal group and representatives of various biotic complexes. During the field research of the Zamglai bog complex, algal samples were collected and fixed with 4 % formalin for further study in laboratory conditions; pH and electrical conductivity of water were measured with a portable pH and conductivity meter. Microscopic examination of the samples was carried out using a light microscope equipped with a camera for taking microphotos. Identification manuals and monographs of the leading Ukrainian (Palamar-Mordvintseva, 1986, 2005) and European desmidiologists (Lenzenweger, 1999) were used for species identification.The iconotype provided in the original description of the newly recorded taxon (Gutwiński, 1892) was used. Scientific novelty. The second record in Ukrainian desmidioflora of a rare taxon from the genus Cosmarium is documented. Previously it was discovered 134 years ago (Gutwiński 1890) in the Roztochchia-Opillja mountain region, namely in the vicinity of Lemberg (former Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria, a part of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy – now Lviv, Ukraine). This taxon was found by the authors for the first time in the Ukrainian Polesie (Chernihiv Polesie). Description, cell dimensions and microphotographs in three views are included in this publication. Conclusions. The description and photographs of the three cell views of the taxon given in the article fill the gaps in the illustrative material of the national reference publications (Palamar-Mordvintseva 1986: 167, fig. 37 item 16) and create better conditions for identification and new records of this taxon in Ukraine. The distribution area of Cosmarium retusiforme var. incrassatum Gutwiński 1890 has been expanded. The flora of desmids of the Ukrainian Polesie is enriched with a new infraspecific taxon.

De-risking Pretreatment of Microalgae To Produce Fuels and Chemical Co-products.

Conversion of microalgae to renewable fuels and chemical co-products by pretreating and fractionation holds promise as an algal biorefinery concept, but a better understanding of the pretreatment performance as a function of algae strain and composition is necessary to de-risk algae conversion operations. Similarly, there are few examples of algae pretreatment at scales larger than the bench scale. This work aims to de-risk algal biorefinery operations by evaluating the pretreatment performance across nine different microalgae samples and five different pretreatment methods at small (5 mL) scale and further de-risk the operation by scaling pretreatment for one species to the 80 L scale. The pretreatment performance was evaluated by solubilization of feedstock carbon and nitrogen [as total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN)] into the aqueous hydrolysate and extractability of lipids [as fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs)] from the pretreated solids. A range of responses was noted among the algae samples across pretreatments, with the current dilute Brønsted acid pretreatment using H2SO4 being the most consistent and robust. This pretreatment produced TOC yields to the hydrolysate ranging from 27.7 to 51.1%, TN yields ranging from 12.3 to 76.2%, and FAME yields ranging from 57.9 to 89.9%. In contrast, the other explored pretreatments (other dilute acid pretreatments, dilute alkali pretreatment with NaOH, enzymatic pretreatment, and flash hydrolysis) produced lower or more variable yields across the three metrics. In light of the greater consistency across samples for dilute acid pretreatment, this method was scaled to 80 L to demonstrate scalability with microalgae feedstocks.