Synthesis of Chitosan Nanoparticles to Regulate Cyanobacterial Abundance

Overview

Cyanobacterial blooms are a result of eutrophic environments and can cause serious harm to the health of organisms. Currently, common ways to eradicate cyanobacteria are with copper-based algaecides, which can be harmful to organisms living in these areas. By testing chitosan nanoparticles’ (CSNPs) abilities against cyanobacteria, it can be concluded if their use is a viable alternative to other algaecides. CSNPs were synthesized using the ionic gelation method, which involves dissolving chitosan and adding a crosslinker (sodium tripolyphosphate) into the solution. To test flocculation abilities, 100 mL cultures of Anabaena were prepared with 2.5 mL of CSNPs, and the relative fluorescence of the cultures were measured before and after adding CSNPs. Next, to test CSNPs’ abilities at inhibiting growth, similar cultures were created with Anabaena and 2.5 mL of CSNPs, except the fluorescence was measured after adding the CSNPs and again after two days. Control cultures were also created and measured except without CSNPs. It was concluded that CSNPs were effective in flocculating the cyanobacteria. Also, CSNPs successfully prevented the growth of the cyanobacteria, as fluorescence in experimental cultures decreased after two days, meanwhile it increased in the control subcultures. The CSNPs displayed promising results to manage cyanobacteria.

Competition history

• AJAS 2026 Category not listed

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