Effects of the insecticide Zectran (Mexacarbate) on several algae

Field samples of freshwater algae were examined to determine the effect of the insecticide Zectran on photosynthesis rate. Concentrations of Zectran between 10 and 10(3) parts per billion (ppb) affected neither O2 production nor NaH14CO3 uptake in any of the seven genera tested. However, Zectran at a concentration of 10(4) ppb after 1 hour effected a reduction in photosynthesis of Chroococcus, Oedogonium and in a mixed sample composed of Zygnema,Mougeotia and Spirogyra. Mougeotia, Spirogyra and Schizogonium were not affected by exposure to 10(4) ppb Zectran after 1 hour, but O2 production was significantly reduced after 24 hours of exposure to this same concentration.