Cyanobacteria
Prelims:
Science &
Technology, Environment & Ecology
Mains:
GS Paper
III-Science & Technology, Environment
Current
relevance:
A team of scientists from the Indian
Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) has developed a
biological material using cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that can effectively
remove lead (Pb) from contaminated water.
Highlights:
About Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae):
1.
Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms
that can produce their own food through photosynthesis.
2.
They are commonly found in freshwater, marine, and
moist terrestrial environments.
3.
Many cyanobacteria can fix atmospheric nitrogen,
helping improve soil fertility.
4.
They play an important role in maintaining ecosystems
and cleaning polluted environments through bioremediation.
Bioremediation:
The process of using living organisms
such as microorganisms, algae, fungi, or plants to remove, degrade, or
neutralize pollutants from contaminated soil, water, or air, thereby restoring
the environment naturally.
Significance:
1.
Provides an eco-friendly and low-cost method
for removing heavy metal contamination.
2.
Can improve access to safe drinking water.
3.
Offers a sustainable alternative to
conventional chemical water treatment methods.
Source: THE HINDU - https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/iit-guwahati-team-finds-blue-green-algae-can-remove-lead-from-water/article71198226.ece