Effect of Ca2+ on the detoxification of Cd2+ by Scenedesmus obliquus cells at low or high temperature

Scenedesmus obliquus was incubated with Cd2+ in the presence or absence of calcium at low (10 degrees C) or high (40 degrees C) temperature. The Cd2+ uptake was affected not only by Ca2+ but also by temperature. Growth rate was inhibited by Cd2+ especially at low temperature. In all Ca2+-containing cultures, S. obliquus exhibited higher rates of growth, dry matter and pigment fractions than in those containing Cd2+ alone. Proteins exhibited a similar response. Ca2+ in the presence of Cd2+ was most efficient where protein contents were mostly doubled. On the other hand Ca2+ reduced the solute leakage by the test alga at 10 and 40 degrees C.