Introduction to Scenedesmus quadricauda Algae
Scenedesmus are a genus of green algae commonly found in freshwater environments. These algae are known for their simple structure and ability to form colonies, making them an excellent model organism for studying photosynthesis in the classroom.
What do I do with the culture when it arrives?
Loosen the lid upon receipt. Depending on when you want to use the culture, either store in a north facing window at room temperature, or place in the fridge to slow down growth.
What growing media should I use?
There are 2 options when it comes to growing media. You can either purchase a vial of concentrated freshwater algae medium with makes 1L of enrichment media, or you can make your own using the recipe below:
- KN0₃ - 1gm
- K₂HPO₄ - 0.1gm
- MgSO₄7H₂0 - 0.1gm
All dissolved together in 1 litre of distilled water. (Adapted from Sciento and SAPS’ Websites)
The Role of Scenedesmus in Photosynthesis
Scenedesmus algae, like all green plants, perform photosynthesis to convert light energy into chemical energy. This process involves the absorption of carbon dioxide and water, which are then transformed into glucose and oxygen using sunlight. Understanding this process is crucial for students learning about plant biology and energy cycles. Photosynthesis practicals are required for GCSE biology.
How to Prepare Algal Balls for Classroom Experiments
Scenedesmus algal balls is a popular and practical way to study photosynthesis. Here’s a simple method to prepare them:
- Required Materials: Scenedesmus quadricauda, sodium alginate, calcium chloride solution, syringe, and beaker.
- Mix Algae and Alginate: Pour away the top of the algae culture leaving the darkest part, combine this concentrated algae with sodium alginate to form a thick mixture.
- Form Algal Balls: Use a syringe to drop the algae alginate mixture into calcium chloride solution, forming small algal balls.
- Rinse and Store: Rinse the algal balls with distilled water and store them in distilled water in the fridge until use.
For full instructions please refer to SAPS's website (Science & Plants for Schools)
Need algal balls quickly?
We offer two options for those who don't have time to grow on a starter culture of Scenedesmus. Firstly we offer ready-to-use algae which does not require growing on; the 100ml bottle is suitable for making a class set of algae balls. Alternatively we also offer ready-made algae balls, ideal for home school experiments or for last minute practicals.
Each student/group requires 100-200 ready-made algae balls, split equally between small bottles such as these 7ml Bijou Bottles. We offer a class set made from 100ml algae, yielding around 3600 balls (enough for 18-36 students, i.e. a 'class set'), a half size version containing around 1800 balls (enough for 9-18 students or groups) and a set designed for a single student or group (around 180 balls). All algae balls are made in our Shropshire lab, if you have bulk or specific requirements please contact us and we will endeavour to help.
Where does Darwin Biological's Algae come from?
Darwin Biological is proud to be partnered with the Culture Collection of Algae & Protozoa (CCAP) with the specific aim of increasing the range of organisms that students in UK schools have access to study. We offer a curated range of specimens that cover a wide range of taxonomies, from the classic Scenedesmus quadricauda (popular for algal balls) through to the bioluminescent Pyrocystis lunula and protozoa Amoeba borokensis. Through this partnership you can be guaranteed to receive top quality cultures at a price point set with schools in mind.
Who are the Culture Collection of Algae and Protozoa (CCAP)?
The Culture Collection of Algae and Protozoa (CCAP) is a Biological Resource Centre located within the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) campus near Oban on the scenic west coast of Scotland. CCAP is supported by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), part of UK Research and Innovation, as a National Capability service. The CCAP supports researchers and businesses across the world with knowledge about the taxonomy and cultivation of algae and protozoa and provide starter cultures and growth media to a wide range of customers.
This partnership enables schools to offer students hands-on experience with a variety of pure microorganisms, enhancing their learning opportunities. If you are purchasing on behalf of a commercial organisation or university please purchase direct from the CCAP.
For information about specific CCAP strains please see their website as well as individual product pages on our website.
When will my order arrive?
Scenedesmus and Chlorella are sent from our Shropshire lab Monday - Wednesday, if opting for a next day service we can also send on Thursdays, provided we receive the order before 1pm.
The rest of our range of algae and protozoa are sent direct from the CCAP, these have a 2-3 week lead time and are dispatched on Mondays. If you require the culture more urgently please contact us as we may be able to supply sooner.
