Abstract: | The accumulation of arsenic by Dunaliella sp. was examined by using a solution containing arsenic only as a first approach to the study of arsenic recovery by aqueous systems. The accumulation of arsenic by Dunaliella sp. was rapid, with equilibrium established in 8 h with respect to arsenic partioning between dissolved and particulate phase. The optimum accumulation was at pH 8.2, NaCl 20 g dm?3, illumination 5000–10000 lux and temperature 22°C. Increased phosphate concentration significantly decreased the uptake of arsenic in the culture. These results suggested that accumulation of arsenic by Dunaliella sp. depended upon biological activity. |