Utilizing Spirogyra grevilleana as a Phytoremediatory Agent for Reduction of Limnetic Nutrients and Escherichia coli Concentrations

• DOI: 10.1002/essoar.884a8536f683a34d.b4c20790a6644e17.1
• Publication Date: 2019-11-13T09:17:29Z
• Authors: Malcolm Barnard; James W. Porter; Susan Wilde
• Keywords: Limnetic zone; Filtration (mathematics); Biofilter

The freshwater alga Spirogyra grevilleana was used in an experimental biofiltration system to reduce levels of Escherichia coli, nitrates, and phosphates. Water collected from a 2.32 ha lake Atlanta, Georgia, USA pumped at constant rate ( m3 hr-1) through the algal filtration devices with low high concentrations S. grevilleana. Effluent water tested over time for E. nitrate, phosphate, dissolved oxygen, pH levels. Both reduced coli by 100% significantly nitrate (30% ± 13%) phosphate (23% 5%) while maintaining oxygen normal Utilizing device could potentially provide sustainable, flexible, low-cost method reduction lakes worldwide. Initial results indicate that use conjunction is capable creating potable water.