Effect of Humic Substances on the Growth of Microalgal Cultures

Treatment with humic substances (preparation Biomin) considerably increased viability of algae during long storage (6 months) in collection. The effect was greater with green algae (Scenedesmus and Chlorella) than with blue-green algae (Nostoc and Anabaena). In intensive cultures, lower Biomin concentrations (1–10 mg/l) increased the biomass production, protein, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, as well as -esterase and glutamate dehydrogenase activities, whereas the lipid and carbohydrate content was higher at 100 mg/l Biomin. A high Biomin concentration (1 g/l) exerted an inhibition. Biomin supply to the cultures in outdoor installation of Shetlik type was associated with a moderate stimulation of algal biomass accumulation. It was concluded that Biomin might be helpful in the improvement of algal viability and growth.__________From Fiziologiya Rastenii, Vol. 52, No. 3, 2005, pp. 463–466.Original English Text Copyright © 2005 by Pouneva.This article was submitted by the author in English.