Abstract:[Background] Microalgae are resistant to heavy metals and have high adsorption rates, which can serve as an excellent biosorbent. [Objective] to explore the influences of environmental factors on the adsorption of Cd2+ and Cr3+ by Chlorella vulgaris. [Methods] Using CdCl2·2H2O and CrCl3·7H2O to provide heavy metal ions, we explored the influences of environmental factors such as the concentrations of heavy metal ions, pH, and temperature on the adsorption of Cd2+ and Cr3+ by C. vulgaris. [Results] At 30℃, pH 5.5, Cd2+ concentration of 0.4 mg/L, Cr3+ concentration of 4.0 mg/L, and C. vulgaris biomass of 0.59 g/L, the adsorption rates of Cd2+ and Cr3+ by C. vulgaris reached the maximums of 84.5% and 75.2%, respectively. The adsorption rate of C.vulgaris to Cd2+ was greater than that to Cr3+. [Conclusion] The adsorption of C. vulgaris to Cd2+ and Cr3+ is affected by environmental factors and C. vulgaris has certain preference to different heavy metals.