The optimization of culture conditions for the enhancement of biomass and lipids in Chlamydomonas hedleyi using a two-phase culture system

With the growing interest in biofuels, it is necessary to explore different species for the determination of the right candidates. The use of less popular microalgal species as a model in microalgal research is important for exploring the potential of new species. Chlamydomonas hedleyi is among the species with unexploited potential and determining the right culture conditions may serve as a prerequisite for subsequent research. In this study, 2-L flasks, and 14-L photobioreactors were used as culture apparatus. The optimal conditions for the accumulation of biomass and lipids in this species are 240 mg/L NaNO3, green LED wavelength as stress for lipid accumulation, red LED (625 nm) for biomass accumulation, 18:6-h light/dark cycle, 300 μmol/m2/s, the agitation speed of 200 rpm, the aeration rate of 1.00 and 0.75 vvm for biomass and lipid production respectively. The lipid content ranged from 24 to 60 % (w/w). The highest biomass produced was 1.45 g dcw/L. [Display omitted] •Green LED is best suited for lipid stress.•Biomass can be accumulated up to 1.45 g dcw/L.•The lipid content ranged between 24 and 60%w/w.•FAMEs profiles recommended for biofuels characterization.