Long-Term Copper Toxicity on Scenedesmus quadricauda and Complexing Polypeptides

Abstract

Abstract Long-term copper toxicity has been demonstrated in Scenedesmus quadricauda. Upon continuous exposure to copper ions at 250 μg/L, the algae responded by a sharp increase in the synthesis of complexing polypeptides to chelate Cu. Complexing polypeptides gradually decreased, as observed by six sampling tests over 732 h, resembling to a negative exponential curve. This gradual diminution is considered to be a prime mechanism of acclimation or of adaptation to a heavy metal contaminated environment.