Microalgal biodiversity as the indicator of soil reclamation in sand pit post-mining sites.
Soil reclamation is increasingly relevant amid the global environmental agenda, as soil transformation from mining activities destroys fertile topsoil, decreases biodiversity, and disrupts ecosystem functions. Reclaiming former mining sites is complex and requires an integrated approach, making the analysis of biological components essential. Microalgae, integral to terrestrial ecosystems, are valuable for studying natural recovery processes, as they reflect these processes at the microscopic level. Their photosynthetic ability contributes to the initial stages of succession, initiating soil formation and ensuring long-term stability.
The completeness and timeframe of reclaiming disturbed soils to a natural state remain critical tasks, with topsoil microalgal biodiversity serving as a key indicator. Since technical restoration occurs faster than spontaneous recovery, understanding the qualitative and quantitative parameters of microalgal communities in both areas is vital.
We aim to:
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Determine the completeness and timeframe of reclamation by comparing microalgal diversity in recultivated areas with undisturbed sites.
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Compare technically and spontaneously reclaimed sites to identify microalgal species that colonize substrates at different succession stages.
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Discover rare and new microalgal species to enhance biodiversity knowledge in altered ecosystems.
This data enables precise assessments of recovery processes, evaluates the economic viability of mining and restoration efforts, and contributes to sustainable development practices.
