The use of immobilized algae, algae beads, has become a useful model to investigate the processes of
photosynthesis and cellular respiration in Introductory Biology labs. Algae beads can be purchased from several
sources, but the process of immobilization of algae is inexpensive, simple, and offers an opportunity for
students to practice basic lab skills. The process of growing green algae, immobilizing the algae, and utilizing the
resulting algae beads can be integrated into Photosynthesis lab exercises in an Introductory Biology laboratory
course. Participants of this workshop will make algae beads to take home. The beads will be made by harvesting
green algae, Chlorella, cultures, immobilizing the algae in sodium alginate followed by cross linking to the beads
in CaCl2. Experimental activities using the algae beads to investigate light intensity & algae concentration on
photosynthesis and cell respiration in a General Biology lab will be demonstrated. In addition, algae culture set
up and maintenance will be discussed.
Keywords: Algae, Algae beads, Immobilize
University of Maryland (2024)
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