Contaminants

From life cycles to DNA for detection, identification and mitigation of algae culture contaminations.

The Challenge of Algal Contamination

Biological contaminants represent a big constraint in algal cultivation. These threats can be classified as grazers, parasites, photosynthetic competitors, or epiphytes.

Early Detection

By integrating persistent microscopic observation with rigorous molecular and phylogenetic analyses, we map the life cycles of harmful microorganisms under controlled conditions.

Biomass and Economic Loss

Integrating early detection with targeted mitigation techniques is the most effective strategy to protect industrial production and avoid economic losses.

The

Team

Led by Cristina Paulino, along with Mélissa José and the guidance of Professor João Varela. Our mission is to master the delicate balance of industrial algae production by targeting and mitigating harmful biological contaminants. We provide the expertise and knowledge necessary to protect algae cultures.

What

can offer

Not yet implemented, but will come soon as contract research services for biological contaminants detection & mitigation.

Cutting Edge Space

Inside Our Lab

Our Microbiology lab is equipped with advanced instrumentation for the analysis of aquatic microorganisms’ life. Focused on the isolation and mitigation of algae  ontaminants, we specialize in precise microbiome manipulation. Fully equipped and prepared with refrigerated orbital shakers, incubaters and microscope for prokaryotes and eukaryotes cultivation. This facility is leveraged with molecular biology and culture based techniques, our lab serves as a critical hub for aquatic microbial ecology, aquaculture, and biotechnology.

Clean Culture Kit: Kit for early detection of algal contaminants

Kit for early detection of Paraphysomonas sp., a microorganism causing culture collapse of Tisochrysis lutea microalgae at industrial scale