Utilization of Organic Selenium Nanoparticles to Inhibit Algal Growth

Algae are the most predominant members of photosynthetic eukaryotic forms, which form a major component of global aquatic ecosystem in India. Tannery industries around Erode and Tirupur in Tamil Nadu face the problem of algal growth in reverse osmosis unit due to the presence of chemicals such as ammonium, ferrous salts, sulphate and nitrates of other metals. The refuse after tannery treatment causes eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems, which is a major problem in this surrounding area. Selenium nanoparticles can have significant adverse effects on growth and morphology of the filamentous green algae in a dose-dependent manner. In the present study, our objective is to expose organic nanoparticles with various concentrations to the algal cells and inhibit the same. The bacterial strain Lactobacillus sp., found in milk, was used for the synthesis of nanoparticles and in the pH range of 7-8 and temperature ranging from 30°C-35°C could effectively inhibit the algal cells. Characterization studies were performed including UV-Vis Spectrophotometer and SEM micrograph to confirm the presence of nanoparticles. The production of dimethyl selenide by algal cells becomes toxic to the algae themselves and thus causing death. The technology can be readily implemented in industries.