Macronutrient study for PUFAs production from the marine microalga Isochrysis galbana

Abstract

Marine microalgae are presented as alternative sources for polyunsaturated fatty acids production. A macronutrient optimization method for culture media commonly used for Isochrysis galbana growth is discussed. This microalga has been reported as a good PU FA producer. The optimization was conducted applying the response surface technique, parameters tested being nitrate, phosphate, ferric citrate and manganese chloride concentrations and the suplementary C02 in the bubbling air. The results show the evidence of growth limitation with the initial culture media and it is proposed a second optimization step considering as design variables the different ratios between media components.