A simple and low-cost method of monitoring and collecting particulate matter detaching from (or interacting with) aquatic animals is described using a novel device based on an airlift pump principle applied to floating cages. The efficiency of the technique in particle collection is demonstrated using polyethylene microspheres interacting with a cyprinid fish (Carassius carassius) and a temporarily parasitic stage (glochidia) of an endangered freshwater mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) dropping from experimentally infested host fish (Salmo trutta). The technique enables the monitoring of temporal dynamics of particle detachment and their continuous collection both in the laboratory and in situ, allowing the experimental animals to be kept under natural water quality regimes and reducing the need for handling and transport. The technique can improve the representativeness of current experimental methods used in the fields of environmental parasitology, animal feeding ecology and microplastic pathway studies in aquatic environments. In particular, it makes it accessible to study the physiological compatibility of glochidia and their hosts, which is an essential but understudied autecological feature in mussel conservation programs worldwide. Field placement of the technique can also aid in outreach programs with pay-offs in the increase of scientific literacy of citizens concerning neglected issues such as the importance of fish hosts for the conservation of freshwater mussels.

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Nanotechnology has seen increased research and implementation in recent decades in numerous applications. Based on the information in the papers, we built a database that included algae species used, biomass pre-processing, main precursors, solvents, production approaches, final size, and possible uses. An analysis of this data revealed a great diversity of algae species investigated for this purpose (68 species of algae and 45 families). The analysis of the strategy plot shows that there are four clusters of themes that are different from each other. Still, some patterns are recognizable, e.g., the general cluster with general methodologies and concepts is in the intersection zone. The second cluster is related to the use of macroalgae, which has had a strong development in the past, but now seems to be less attractive, and the third cluster is on the use of nanoparticles to control bacteria, which seems to be a topic that, although not currently driving the field, could become a major driver if current trends continue. New technological developments should be expected in the near future as NPs synthesis from green renewable sources such as algae poses an alternative to the traditional means in the coming years.