Interaction of Heavy Metals with Marine Macroalgae and Their Implications for Bioremediation: A Comprehensive Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21276/pt.2026.v3.i2.2Keywords:
Bioaccumulation, Biomonitoring, Bioremediation, Heavy metals, Microalagae, PhysodesAbstract
Heavy metals, released by both human activity and natural processes, seep into coastal waters and disrupt the balance of seaweed habitats. This review paper investigates the levels of heavy metals such as As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in wild populations of maritime macroalgae and particularly focuses on understanding their impacts, a crucial aspect in mitigating environmental threats. It also explores the potential use of macroalgae as bioindicators and for bioremediation of heavy-metal contamination, such as phycoremediation. After careful evaluation, it was found that Phaeophyceae are more promising for bioaccumulating metals, including Cu, Cr, As, Zn, Mn, Pb, and Cd. Some macroalgae tend to localize these metals in cellular organelles as part of their metal tolerance. While macroalgae are generally able to accumulate and tolerate elevated levels of several elements, the precise levels of phytotoxicity remain unclear. This review offers an in-depth analysis of the distinct physiological adaptations of various seaweed species to heavy-metal pollution.
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