The use of algae-cyanobacterial communities for the assessment of lead pollution of gray forest soils

The effect of lead acetate on the characteristics of the algae-cyanobacterial communities of a gray forest soil was studied in a model experiment. The investigation was carried out using the method of water-soil cultures. The advantages and disadvantages of the application of this method for the ecotoxicological experiments are considered. The species of cyanobacteria and algae tolerant and sensitive to heavy metals were revealed. The addition of lead acetate at doses of 750 and 1500 mg/kg to soil caused a decrease in the species diversity and abundance of the cyanobacteria and algae, a reduction of the total content of chlorophyll, and changes in the morphology of individuals, whereas a dose of 300 mg/kg stimulated the development of the algae-cyanobacterial communities. The effect observed is suggested to be due to the double action of the salt: the adverse influence of the lead cations, and the positive influence of the acetate anions and the protective function of the soil. The use of a complex of different parameters of the biological organization of the communities at the cell, organism, and community levels results in the objective and complete assessment of the toxicant effects on the algae-cyanobacterial community of the gray forest soil.