Borda algae was developed by Justina Borda.
Background[ | ]
Borda algae was developed by Justina Borda and her team, which was on the cutting edge of genetic research. They produced a strain of algae that not only thrived in poorly oxygentated waters, but also photosynthesized at previously unknown rates. By converting this photosynthetic energy into electrical power, Borda theorized it might be possible to power remote homes and even villages.
Early attempts at designing a generator capable of interfacing with the algae were doomed to failure. The first prototype proved incapable of absorbing that much energy, the second became effectively inert. It was only with the "Goldilocks generator," developed in conjunction with Benet Lunderville, that the Borda algae became a success.
The algae and its associated generator technology proliferated across rural and residential areas, starting with Colombia, then moving outward. Through the algae, any body of still water could be turned into a proverbial solar panel, or even a bucket of water seeded with the algae could suffice. Efforts to contain or profit from the technology proved futile, and while there were concerns about the algae becoming an invasive species, the algae's use spread.
The algae was also utilized by Dr. Wing Mui in her development of hydroponics technology for Horizon Lunar Colony.[1]