Phycoremediation assessment of heavy metals and nutrients from wastewater using some cyanobacteria

Cyanobacterial Phycoremediation is considered an effective agent intended for the biosorption of heavy metals (HMs) and nutrients for wastewater treatment. Arthrospira platensis, Oscillatoria simplicissima, and Nostoc muscorum Were investigated to remove pollutants from wastewater. Over three weeks, the cyanobacteria significantly reduced BOD, COD, and nutrients (ammonium, nitrate, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus). The effectiveness depended on the type of cyanobacteria used and the incubation time. In general, Arthrospira platensis is best for removing organic materials. HMs removal % varied significantly according to the incubation times and the type of heavy metal. All the tested cyanobacteria had a promising effect in removing the heavy metals under study, especially manganese, as Nostoc Muscorum initially removed most of the metals. In general, cyanobacteria can be a viable and environmentally friendly way to treat wastewater, and use their biomass in other fields, such as producing biofuels.