Optimization of media and culture conditions and changes in the levels of major biochemical constituents during growth stages of Nannochloropsis oculata in the laboratory

Abstract

Comparison of media and a few culture conditions for growing Nannochloropsis oculata, in laboratory is the major objective of this communication. Axenic stock culture was inoculated to different culture media and were evaluated for biomass production and pigment content. Of the three media studied, the f/2 medium was found to produce maximum cell density. Culture conditions like pH, temperature and salinity, optimized in f/2 medium revealed that pH 9, temperature 20°C and salinity 25 ppt were found to yield optimum output. Estimation of biochemical constituents showed more lipid content in the stationary phase, indicating the right harvesting time and this live feed organisms can also be considered for biofuel in the future.