THE USE OF IMMOBILIZATION IN ALGINATE BEADS FOR LONG-TERM STORAGE OF PSEUDANABAENA GALEATA (CYANOBACTERIA) IN THE LABORATORY1

A new method for long-term storage of algal cultures in the laboratory was tested. The procedure is based on the cell immobilization technique. Cells of the filamentous cyanobacterium Pseudanabaena galeata Bocher were immobilized in sodium-alginate beads and stored for 14–18 months. The structure and functional features of the organism were maintained in this immobilized state and no ultrastructural biochemical, or growth rate differences were detected between stock and previously immobilized cell cultures after this period. We discuss the advantages of this method compared to other preservation methods and recommend the use of immobilization in alginate beads for long-term algal storage.