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Updated: Feb 8, 2026
06:02
A Low-Cost Method of Measuring the In Situ Primary Productivity of Periphyton Communities of Lentic Waters
Published on: December 16, 2022
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[Periphyton and its application in water purification]
Chong-Jun Chen1, Zhi-Ying Han, Yin-Mei Zhu
1Zhejiang Provincical Key Laboratory for Water Pollution Control and Environmental Safety, Hangzhou 310029, China. steaven163@163.com
Ying Yong Sheng Tai Xue Bao = the Journal of Applied Ecology
|February 9, 2010
Summary
Periphyton, a natural water organism, efficiently removes pollutants like nitrogen and phosphorus. Artificial systems using periphyton show promise for water purification, but more research is needed on its growth and pollutant removal mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Aquatic Ecology
- Biotechnology
Context:
- Periphyton, comprising diverse microorganisms, thrives in natural aquatic environments.
- It plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and water quality maintenance.
- Periphyton exhibits significant biomass production and sensitivity to environmental changes.
Purpose:
- To highlight periphyton's potential in water purification technologies.
- To review the application of artificial periphyton systems in wastewater treatment.
- To identify knowledge gaps in understanding periphyton's pollutant removal mechanisms.
Summary:
- Periphyton effectively removes pollutants through absorption, metabolism, adsorption, and complexation.
- Its high tolerance to pollution and nutrient removal efficiency make it valuable for water treatment.
- Artificial systems like algal turf scrubbers have shown success in treating various wastewaters.
Impact:
- Periphyton-based systems offer a sustainable and cost-effective approach to water purification.
- Further research can optimize periphyton's application in wastewater treatment.
- Understanding molecular mechanisms can enhance bioremediation strategies.
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