Chemical elements in Mediterranean macroalgae. A review

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Environmental Science
• Biomonitoring

Background:

• Mediterranean macroalgae represent a significant portion of native algal diversity.
• Limited research exists on macroelements (e.g., Ca, K) compared to microelements (e.g., Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu) in macroalgae.
• Existing studies focus on a narrow range of algal species and chemical elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current knowledge on macroalgae's capacity for element accumulation, tolerance, and biomonitoring.
• To identify knowledge gaps regarding specific elements, algal species, and biomonitoring applications.
• To highlight the potential of macroalgae as bioindicators of marine pollution.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on Mediterranean macroalgae and element accumulation.
• Analysis of reported data on macro- and micro-element concentrations in various macroalgal species.
• Synthesis of information on uptake mechanisms, tolerance, and biomonitoring potential.

Main Results:

• Macroalgae demonstrate significant capacity to accumulate and tolerate high concentrations of various elements.
• Commonly studied elements include lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu).
• Macroalgae show potential as effective bioindicators for assessing marine pollution levels.

Conclusions:

• Macroalgae are proficient accumulators and tolerators of marine elements, validating their role in biomonitoring.
• Further research is essential to define phytotoxic limits and develop standardized long-term biomonitoring protocols.
• Investigating the biomagnification of toxic elements within macroalgae-based food webs is crucial for comprehensive environmental risk assessment.