Phycobiliprotein content and growth profile of Spirulina platensis in airlift photobioreactor

Abstract

Microalgae are versatile organisms capable of adapting to diverse environmental conditions, allowing for enhanced biomass production and metabolite synthesis. Due to their rich biochemical composition and rapid growth rate, they are widely utilized across various industries. Microalgae cultivation can be conducted at different scales and methods, including photobioreactors and open ponds. Among various microalgae species, Spirulina platensis is particularly favored in industrial applications and recognized as one of the most significant commercial sources of phycobiliproteins, bioactive compounds unique to blue-green algae. Phycocyanin, a phycobiliprotein derived from S. platensis, is especially valued for its high-added economic potential. This study investigates the production of phycocyanin from S. platensis using an airlift photobioreactor, which offers advantages such as the elimination of mechanical mixing components and the efficient replacement of O₂ and CO₂ through aeration. The specific growth rate of S. platensis was determined to be 0.28 ± 0.01 day⁻¹, with a doubling time of 2.47 ± 0.09 days. The phycobiliprotein concentrations were measured as follows: 1.03 ± 0.001 mg/L for phycoerythrin, 10.37 ± 0.08 mg/L for phycocyanin, 6.29 ± 0.24 mg/L for allophycocyanin, and 17.71 ± 1.76 mg/L for total phycobiliprotein. This study successfully cultivated S. platensis in an airlift photobioreactor, demonstrating its potential for efficient production of biomass and bioactive materials.