The issues of external influence on biological objects have interested mankind since ancient times. It can significantly affect vital activity of yeast cells. Their use for bioindication and quantitative determination of the rate of gas emission depending on composition of culture liquid makes it possible to use this process for bioindication of environment. In the article, on the basis of a developed machine for measuring the rate of carbon dioxide emission by yeast fungi, which makes it possible to use it in laboratory and field conditions, the values of the effect of mercury on the process of fermentation of culture medium by yeast are given. A method for express bioindication by yeast fungi of environmental pollution with mercury has been worked out. It serves as the basis for development of guidelines for identifying and controlling sources of chemical hazards during emergency response. The experiments have shown that the maximum effect on bioactivity of yeast is exerted by the HgCl2 salt with different concentrations, which leads to a decrease in the rate of CO2 emission and deterioration of yeast vital functions.

The main results of determining the presence of mercury in components of the environment by the developed method of express bioindication by yeast fungi based on the improvement of the existing, operating design of the installation are presented in the article. It was found that mercury salts contribute to the rapid release of carbon dioxide at any concentrations presented in the article if the culture medium is stirred, and an increase in the rate of CO2 release by yeast fungi with constant water treatment with VFMS has been established. It has been established that when the culture medium is stirred with different concentrations of yeast fungi, with constant electrophysical treatment of water, mercury salts increase the rate of carbon dioxide evolution.