Molecular identification and phylogeny of freshwater microalgae in Nabao Lake, Cabiao, Nueva Ecija
Date
2019
Authors
Louise Kathreen V. Moreno
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Abstract
Microalgae are unicellular photosynthetic organisms which belong to a diverse group. This study focused on identification of microalgae in Nabao Lake, Cabiao Nueva Ecija. Microalgae were isolated through serial dilution and cultures were stored in room temperature with continuous light and aeration. Urea was used to promote the growth of microalgae. Morphological features were observed and used for identification. The gene marker, rbcL was used for molecular identification and it was also used to infer phylogenetic tree using MEGA. Phytochemical components of the isolated microalgae were also determined through TLC.
Morphological and molecular identification revealed microalgae isolate NA as Desertella yichangensis. NB was identified as Monoraphidium contortum based on morphological characteristics. Phylogenetic analysis constructed for D. yichangensis showed genetic divergence of the species. Additionally, phytochemical screening suggested the presence of fatty acids, sugars, triterpenes, coumarins, alkaloids, tannins, phenols flavonoids, essential oils and steroids for both microalgal extract. Aside from the mentioned secondary metabolites, D. yichangensis contains sugar while M. contortum contains anthrones.