UTILIZATION OF MICROALGAE FOR THE TREATMENT OF CASSAVA WASTEWATER
Abstract
This study evaluated the potential of microalgae for bioremediating cassava processing
wastewater, which poses significant environmental risks due to its high organic load and
toxic compounds. Four microalgae strains (Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorella sorokiniana, and
two unidentified Chlorella spp.) were isolated from contaminated sites and tested for their
ability to degrade pollutants over a 25-Day period. Results showed that Chlorella
sorokiniana and Chlorella sp. achieved over 90% reduction in Biological Oxygen Demand
(BOD), while also stabilizing pH and reducing heavy metal concentrations (Cu, Pb, Cd, Ni)
and Cyanide content. Although Chlorella vulgaris exhibited high biomass growth, its
pollutant removal efficiency was lower. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) confirmed no
significant difference in BOD reduction among strains (p > 0.05), suggesting comparable
performance under tested conditions. The study demonstrates that microalgae-based
treatment offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution for cassava effluent management, with
potential for resource recovery. Further optimization of growth conditions and large-scale
validation are recommended for practical application
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