The Battle of Microalgae and Mercury

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have discovered that certain forms of phytoplankton, specifically microalgae, have the ability to break down the neurotoxin methylmercury in water. Phytoplankton are known to accumulate methylmercury and introduce it into the food chain, posing risks to human health. This finding provides new insights into the complex global mercury cycle and could help improve models for assessing the environmental and health risks associated with mercury pollution.