Sugar, specifically glucose, can influence algae growth significantly. The primary effect depends on the amount and rate at which the sugar is supplied.
Based on research, providing sugar can initially boost growth rates.
The Positive Impact of Glucose on Growth
Studies show that growth rates of heterotrophic bacteria and algae increased with glucose loading rate. This means that as more sugar (glucose) was provided, up to a certain point, the faster the algae and bacteria grew. This indicates that sugar can serve as a beneficial nutrient under appropriate conditions.
When Sugar Becomes Harmful
However, the positive effect has a limit. The same research found that excessive loading rates were detrimental to the survival of the algae and bacteria. This highlights that introducing too much sugar can be toxic or otherwise harmful, leading to reduced survival rather than increased growth.
Observed Growth Rates
In the study referenced, specific maximum growth rates were observed:
- The maximum specific growth rate noted for the algae was 1.58 d⁻¹.
- The maximum specific growth rate for the bacteria was 1.70 d⁻¹.
These figures represent the highest growth speeds achieved under the conditions tested, demonstrating the potential for rapid growth when the glucose loading rate is managed effectively, avoiding detrimental excess.
In essence, sugar can act as a growth enhancer for algae and associated bacteria, but only within a beneficial range. Providing too much sugar will have the opposite, harmful effect.
