Physio-chemical processes affecting copper, tin and zinc toxicity to algae: A review

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the physic-chemical processes affecting copper, zinc, and tin toxicity to algae. Both Cu and Zn are essential algal micronutrients, cofactors in numerous biochemical processes. The availability of a nutrient or toxic substance can be significantly affected by precipitation. Methods for modeling the effects of adsorption–desorption reactions have been previously reviewed. Useful predictions of algal response require an understanding of the relative importance of these interactions (both magnitude and time dependence). Photoreduction and dissolution of Mn oxides by dissolved humic substances has been proposed as an important factor regulating dissolved Mn distribution in seawater. Photodegradation of iron (Fe) chelates also enhances Fe uptake by algae. Anderson et al. observed that Fe uptake by Thalassiosira weissflogii in a chemically defined medium dominated by FeEDTA complexation doubled in the presence of light.