Effect of Heavy Metal Toxicity on Chlorella sp. from Natural Freshwater Sources (Phase 1)

This project addresses the issue of heavy metal contamination in freshwater sources and its potential bioaccumulation through the microalga Chlorella, which forms the base of the aquatic food chain. The main objective is to experimentally evaluate the toxicity of cadmium, chromium, and lead on algae isolated from local ecosystems. The methodology involves the isolation and bioaugmentation of Chlorella sp. from sources in the Metropolitan District of Quito. Subsequently, cultures will be exposed to aqueous solutions containing the metals under controlled variables of pH and initial biomass concentration. The impact will be measured by analyzing cell morphology, determining chlorophyll and carotenoid content, and constructing growth curves using a Neubauer chamber. The generated results are crucial for developing environmental conservation measures in affected areas and advancing scientific knowledge in Algal Biotechnology and Environmental Conservation.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To study the effect of heavy metals (cadmium, chromium, and lead) on the development of freshwater microalgae Chlorella, evaluating morphological changes, pigment production, and cell density to determine the consequences of its toxicity.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Biodiversity and genetic resources