Evaluation of green microalgae isolated from central and north coast of Sao Paulo as source of oil

Abstract

Microalgae strains, newly isolated from freshwater in mangrove areas of Central and North Coasts of Sao Paulo State (Brazil), were evaluated regarding total protein and lipid content, and fatty acids profile. The biochemical composition was compared with that observed in strains obtained by UTEX Culture Collection (USA). Among seven identified green algae, Monoraphidium contortum (CCMA-UFSCar-701) presented the highest lipid content (43.60%), close to that observed in Botryococcus braunii (UTEX-2441; 48.85%). Protein content in isolated strains varied in the range of 13.90~23.60%. Finally, the most abundant fatty acids were palmitic acid (C16:0), oleic acid (C18:1), linoleic acid (C18:2), and y-linolenic acid (C18:3).Chlorella vulgaris (CCMA- UFSCar-704) may be highlighted for its high linoleic acid content (49%). On the other hand, Elakatothrix sp (CCMA- UFSCar-702) and Scenedesmus obliquus (UTEX-B2630) presented the highest content of oleic acid (41% and 43%, respectively), which is preferable for oils to be used as feedstock for biodiesel.