Control of algal growth on greenhouse surfaces using commercial algaecides

Abstract

Greenhouses and nurseries provide ideal environments for facilitating the formation of nuisance algal mats. Algal growth poses safety concerns to horticulturists and stimulates the propagation of unwanted plant pests and pathogens. To date, few strategies and data are available to effectively manage algal problems. The effectiveness of five algaecides was tested on two varying surfaces of greenhouses in situ to elucidate the efficacy of chemical methods of removing algae. Moreover, Nostoc commune (Vaucher ex Bornet & Flahault) was treated on ceramic tiles in vitro, as it is a common alga in greenhouses and nurseries. We found that each algaecide had different effects, depending on the chemical applied, the surface to which the chemical was applied, and finally the types of algae that were targeted. Algaecides across the surfaces tested demonstrated that algal cell characteristics and communal makeup played an important role in algaecide efficacy, where mucilaginous algae were replaced by sheath-forming filamentous cyanobacteria. We found sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate to be the most effective chemical in terms of controlling Nostoc on tarp, gravel, and ceramic surfaces.

Preparation and Characterization of Novel Magnesium Composite/Walnut Shells-Derived Biochar for As and P Sorption from Aqueous Solutions

“…Phosphate concentrations as low as 20 µg/L can permit rapid growth of algae alongside oxygen depletion. The resulting harmful algal blooms produce toxins that diminish water fauna and flora populations [2].…”

“…The hydrolysis and decomposition of MgCl 2 in pretreated biochar results in MgO, Mg(OH) 2 and Mg salts that alter its physicochemical properties and morphological characteristics. Afterall, the mineral fraction plays a relevant role in the stability and anionic sorption potential of biochar-based sorbents [16].…”

Diversity of the genus Brasilonema (Nostocales, Cyanobacteria) in plant nurseries of central Florida (USA) with the description of three new species: B. fioreae sp. nov., B. santannae sp. nov. and B. wernerae sp. nov.

“…Greenhouses used as nurseries for growing tropical and agricultural plants make ideal habitats for the development of subaerophytic cyanobacteria, biofilms, and microbial mats (Aguiar et al 2008;Laughinghouse et al 2019;Romanenko et al 2020;Berthold et al 2021). Their warm temperature, high moisture, and relatively stable environmental setting provides optimal conditions for the growth of cyanobacteria (including Brasilonema) and other algae that can become a nuisance.…”