Integrated inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa by allelochemicals and a flow-through copper ionization cell: performance insights and mechanisms
摘要
Harmful algal blooms represent a significant global challenge. In this study, we integrated allelochemicals with a flow-through copper ionization cell to inhibit Microcystis aeruginosa. Our findings revealed that the combined treatment achieved maximum inhibition rates of 84.39% and 79.55% for toxic and non-toxic M. aeruginosa, respectively, after seven days. These results demonstrated significantly stronger inhibition compared to individual treatments, including L-lysine (38.62% and 27.73%), electric field treatment (64.45% and 56.67%), and copper ionization cell (less than 20%) applications. The combined treatment induced more substantial reductions in chlorophyll a, carotenoids, and phycobiliproteins, causing greater damage to the photosynthetic system. Notably, phycocyanin content exhibited the most pronounced decline, suggesting its potential as a critical target for intervention. Furthermore, the combined stress triggered the highest levels of oxidative stress and disruption of antioxidant enzymes in algal cells, ultimately leading to programmed cell death-like responses. These findings provide valuable insights into a promising strategy for cyanobacteria control.