Evaluation of three <i>Spirulina</i> species grown under similar conditions for their growth and biochemicals

Abstract

Abstract Growth pattern and biochemical composition of three species of Spirulina, S platensis, S laxissima and S lonar , were studied under controlled culture conditions. The chemical constituents were analysed in terms of chlorophyll‐ a , phycobilliproteins, β‐carotene and phenolics (intracellular and extracellular). Of the three species S platensis showed highest growth rate, biomass, pigment concentration and low intracellular phenolics. The shortest doubling time was seen in S platensis . The results demonstrated the importance of strain selection for large‐scale cultivation. The results also showed differences in culture conditions (light intensity and pH) for the three species of Spirulina to obtain the maximum growth, as well as biochemical basis for obtaining the maximum growth in Spirulina spp. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry