Critical assessment of several filamentous algae as bioeconomic energy under different culture conditions

Abstract

This study systematically investigated the growth characteristics, cellular morphology, and intracellular biochemical profiles of four Trentepohliaceae strains, while concurrently examining the physiological responses of Tribonema sp. FACHB-1786 to varying light intensities, nitrogen sources and concentrations. Comprehensive compositional analysis through GC–MS and HPLC revealed that oleic acid (C18:1) predominated the fatty acid profile, accounting for approximately 50 % of total fatty acids, with β-carotene representing 50 %–60 % of the total pigment content in Trentepohliaceae strains. The biodiesel production potential of Tribonema sp. FACHB-1786 was rigorously evaluated using established fuel quality parameters, demonstrating favorable lipid characteristics for renewable energy applications. Notably, the strain exhibited significant eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) accumulation, reaching 15.6 % of total fatty acids during peak lipid production. As a clinically validated omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, EPA demonstrates dual functionality in therapeutic applications through its hypolipidemic effects and immunomodulatory properties. This substantial EPA content positions Tribonema sp. as a promising candidate for nutraceutical development and functional food formulations. The experimental data suggest optimized cultivation strategies for enhancing both biodiesel precursors and high-value metabolites in algal biotechnology applications. The dual-output potential (bioenergy and nutraceuticals) demonstrated in this study presents a compelling case for integrated biorefinery approaches in microalgal biomass utilization.