Diatoms: Ecology and Biotechnological Applications

Diatoms have a unique biomonitoring ability and sensitivity toward different pollutants in wastewater, making them a valuable tool for ecotoxicological monitoring. They also have nutraceutical value and can be used in sustainable diatom biorefinery. The book is intended for microbiologists, biotechnologists, and marine biologists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Diatoms, those tiny yet remarkable organisms, play a vital role in the ecological dynamics of aquatic ecosystems. Their contribution to primary productivity is astounding, accounting for a staggering 40% of total production. What sets diatoms apart is their remarkable biomonitoring ability and remarkable sensitivity to various pollutants present in wastewater. This unique trait makes them invaluable tools in ecotoxicological monitoring, enabling scientists to assess the health of water bodies and detect the presence of harmful substances.

In addition to their ecological significance, diatoms offer a wealth of nutraceutical compounds that hold immense health benefits. These compounds include omega-3 fatty acids (DHA), polysaccharides, and phenols, which have been shown to have positive effects on human health, such as reducing inflammation, promoting cardiovascular health, and enhancing cognitive function.

However, the development of a sustainable diatom biorefinery poses significant challenges. One of the main challenges is the efficient extraction and purification of these valuable compounds from diatom biomass. Additionally, there are concerns about the impact of diatom cultivation on the environment, such as water pollution and resource depletion.

To address these challenges, researchers and industry experts are actively exploring innovative approaches and technologies. One promising area of research is the development of newer diatom-based indices for wastewater quality analysis. These indices can provide rapid and accurate assessments of water quality, enabling policymakers and environmental agencies to make informed decisions about water management and pollution control.

Furthermore, the book delves into the potential of diatom-based products in various industries, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Diatoms have the unique ability to produce a wide range of bioactive compounds that can be used as natural ingredients in these products. For example, diatom-derived pigments can be used in food coloring, while diatom-based fertilizers can improve soil quality and crop yield.

In conclusion, Diatoms: Ecological Impact and Biotechnological Applications is a comprehensive reference book that provides a deep understanding of the ecological significance and biotechnological applications of diatoms. It highlights the unique biomonitoring ability and sensitivity of diatoms to pollutants, making them invaluable tools in ecotoxicological monitoring. The book also explores the nutraceutical value of diatom-derived compounds and the challenges in sustainable diatom biorefinery. With its extensive coverage and insightful analysis, this book is a valuable resource for microbiologists, biotechnologists, and marine biologists alike.

Diatoms, those tiny yet remarkable organisms, play a vital role in the ecological dynamics of aquatic ecosystems. Their contribution to primary productivity is astounding, accounting for a staggering 40% of total production. What sets diatoms apart is their remarkable biomonitoring ability and remarkable sensitivity to various pollutants present in wastewater. This unique trait makes them invaluable tools in ecotoxicological monitoring, enabling scientists to assess the health of water bodies and detect the presence of harmful substances.

In addition to their ecological significance, diatoms offer a wealth of nutraceutical compounds that hold immense health benefits. These compounds include omega-3 fatty acids (DHA), polysaccharides, and phenols, which have been shown to have positive effects on human health, such as reducing inflammation, promoting cardiovascular health, and enhancing cognitive function.

However, the development of a sustainable diatom biorefinery poses significant challenges. One of the main challenges is the efficient extraction and purification of these valuable compounds from diatom biomass. Additionally, there are concerns about the impact of diatom cultivation on the environment, such as water pollution and resource depletion.

To address these challenges, researchers and industry experts are actively exploring innovative approaches and technologies. One promising area of research is the development of newer diatom-based indices for wastewater quality analysis. These indices can provide rapid and accurate assessments of water quality, enabling policymakers and environmental agencies to make informed decisions about water management and pollution control.

Furthermore, the book delves into the potential of diatom-based products in various industries, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Diatoms have the unique ability to produce a wide range of bioactive compounds that can be used as natural ingredients in these products. For example, diatom-derived pigments can be used in food coloring, while diatom-based fertilizers can improve soil quality and crop yield.

In conclusion, Diatoms: Ecological Impact and Biotechnological Applications is a comprehensive reference book that provides a deep understanding of the ecological significance and biotechnological applications of diatoms. It highlights the unique biomonitoring ability and sensitivity of diatoms to pollutants, making them invaluable tools in ecotoxicological monitoring. The book also explores the nutraceutical value of diatom-derived compounds and the challenges in sustainable diatom biorefinery. With its extensive coverage and insightful analysis, this book is a valuable resource for microbiologists, biotechnologists, and marine biologists alike.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032332567