Multifactor meta-analysis reveals context-dependent inhibitory efficiency and mechanisms of allelochemicals against Microcystis aeruginosa and concurrent microcystin-pollution risk.

Multifactor meta-analysis shows that high concentrations and prolonged exposure to allelochemicals most effectively inhibit Microcystis aeruginosa growth and microcystin release, with effects varying by compound type.

• Why it matters: Understanding how different allelochemicals and their application conditions influence cyanobacterial blooms and toxin production is crucial for developing safe and effective water management strategies.
• What they did: The study integrated 2124 data points from 121 articles using a novel multifactor meta-analysis approach, analyzing the effects of allelochemical concentration, type, and exposure time on M. aeruginosa growth and microcystin dynamics.
• The result: Findings indicate that terpenoids strongly inhibit growth without increasing toxin release, while phenolics reduce microcystin production, and nitrogen- and aliphatic compounds pose pollution risks, guiding targeted bloom control measures.