Comprehensive A-Z knowledge about microalgae and cyanobacteria

Welcome to the comprehensive A-Z encyclopaedia dedicated to the fascinating world of microalgae and cyanobacteria. This comprehensive directory is designed to awaken your sensitivity and deepen your understanding of these powerful but often overlooked organisms. Discover the intricacies of the different microalgae species, learn about uses and processes, and learn about the variety of innovative production systems currently in use. From their vital role in ecosystems to their increasing importance in industrial applications, microalgae and cyanobacteria represent an untapped potential. Our encyclopaedia is designed to enlighten, educate and inspire, giving you a comprehensive understanding of these vital microorganisms and the opportunities they offer. Immerse yourself in the microscopic universe that silently supports our own world.

Comprehensive A-Z knowledge about microalgae and cyanobacteria

Welcome to the comprehensive A-Z encyclopaedia dedicated to the fascinating world of microalgae and cyanobacteria. This comprehensive directory is designed to awaken your sensitivity and deepen your understanding of these powerful but often overlooked organisms. Discover the intricacies of the different microalgae species, learn about uses and processes, and learn about the variety of innovative production systems currently in use. From their vital role in ecosystems to their increasing importance in industrial applications, microalgae and cyanobacteria represent an untapped potential. Our encyclopaedia is designed to enlighten, educate and inspire, giving you a comprehensive understanding of these vital microorganisms and the opportunities they offer. Immerse yourself in the microscopic universe that silently supports our own world.

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Airlift pump

A device that uses compressed air to circulate microalgae culture in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors to ensure good mixing, nutrient distribution and light exposure.

Algae

Algae are a diverse group of aquatic organisms ranging in size from microscopic single-celled organisms to large algae. Microalgae, also known as phytoplankton, are a type of algae commonly used in industrial production due to their high nutritional value and ability to produce valuable compounds.

Algae bioreactors

Specialised systems for the efficient cultivation of microalgae on a large scale under controlled conditions.

Antioxidants

Microalgae are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against oxidative stress and prevent cell damage. Antioxidants are used in various fields, including cosmetics and food supplements.

Aquaculture

Microalgae are used in aquaculture as a sustainable food source for fish and shrimp.

Astaxanthin

A valuable carotenoid pigment found in microalgae, particularly Haematococcus pluvialis, with strong antioxidant properties and applications in the nutraceutical, cosmetic and aquaculture industries.

Autotrophic cultivation

Growth method for microalgae that relies on sunlight and carbon dioxide as primary energy and carbon sources, respectively.

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Batch cultivation

A growth method in which microalgae are cultivated in a closed system without adding fresh nutrients or removing waste products.

Bioactive compounds

Biologically active substances produced by microalgae that have potential applications in pharmaceuticals, food supplements and cosmetic products.

Organic fertiliser

Microalgae-based organic fertilisers that improve soil fertility, crop yield and sustainable agriculture.

Biofuels

Microalgae have the potential to be a sustainable source of biofuels, such as biodiesel and bioethanol. The lipids contained in microalgae can be extracted and processed to produce renewable energy.

Bioplastics

Microalgae are used as a source of biodegradable bioplastics that can reduce the impact of plastic pollution on the environment.

Biomass

Biomass refers to the total mass of microalgae produced in a given system. It is an important factor in determining the overall productivity and profitability of microalgal production.

Biomass concentration

The process of increasing the density of microalgal cells in the culture medium, which can be achieved by sedimentation, centrifugation or filtration in flat-panel airlift photobioreactor systems.

Bioremediation

Microalgae can be used for bioremediation of various pollutants, including heavy metals and organic compounds. In this process, microalgae are used to absorb and metabolise pollutants to reduce their concentration in the environment.

Bubble column

An important component of flat-panel airlift photobioreactor technology that uses gas bubbles to optimise mixing and mass transfer to improve microalgal growth and productivity.

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Carbon capture

The process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide from industrial processes using microalgae that can use the carbon dioxide for photosynthesis and produce oxygen in return.

Chlorella

Chlorella is a green microalgae rich in protein, fibre and antioxidants. It is often used as a dietary supplement as it is said to improve digestion, strengthen the immune system and detoxify the body.

Chlorococcum

A genus of unicellular green algae often used to produce high value compounds such as astaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids.

Closed photobioreactors

Closed, translucent systems used for the cultivation of microalgae under controlled conditions, allowing higher productivity and contamination control.

Continuous cultivation

A method of microalgae cultivation in which fresh medium is continuously supplied to the culture, allowing higher growth rates and productivity compared to batch cultivation.

CO2 gassing

The injection of carbon dioxide into the flat-panel airlift photobioreactor, providing an essential carbon source for microalgal growth and increasing productivity.

Coralline algae

A group of red algae that secrete calcium carbonate and contribute to the formation of coral reefs. They are also used in the production of dental materials and bone substitutes.

Cryopreservation (cryopreservation)

The process of preserving microalgae by freezing them at extremely low temperatures, which allows long-term storage and preserves genetic diversity.

Culture medium

The nutrient-rich solution used in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors to support microalgal growth, usually consisting of water, inorganic salts and trace elements.

Cyanobacteria

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are a type of photosynthetic bacteria closely related to microalgae. They are known for their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and for their potential as a source of biofuels and bioproducts.

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Dewatering

The process of separating microalgal biomass from the culture medium, a crucial step in downstream processing.

DHA

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in some microalgae species, particularly Schizochytrium. It is used in dietary supplements and in infant formula.

Diatoms

Diatoms are a type of microalgae characterised by their unique silica cell walls. They are used in various fields, including the production of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and nanotechnology.

Diffuse aeration

A method used in flat plate airlift photobioreactors to distribute air and CO2 evenly throughout the culture to promote optimal gas exchange and mixing.

Downstream processing

The various steps in the conversion of raw microalgal biomass into high-value products, including extraction, purification and formulation.

Drying

The process of removing water from microalgal biomass to extend its shelf life, reduce its weight and volume for storage and transport, and improve its nutritional profile.

Dry weight determination.

A technique for measuring the biomass concentration of microalgae cultures grown in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors. A known volume of the culture is dried and the remaining biomass is weighed.

Dunaliella salina

Dunaliella is a halophilic green microalgae rich in beta-carotene and other carotenoids. It is often used in the production of food colourings as it is a natural source of yellow and orange pigments.

Dark fermentation

A method of anaerobic fermentation in which microalgae are converted into biofuels without exposure to light.

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Encapsulation

A technique used to protect and stabilise sensitive microalgae-derived compounds such as antioxidants and vitamins to improve shelf life and functionality in various applications.

Energy

Microalgae have the potential to produce renewable energy in the form of biofuels and biogas. Microalgae are also being investigated as a source of electricity generation through the use of microbial fuel cells.

Energy efficiency

A factor to consider in the development and operation of flat-panel airlift photobioreactors. This includes optimising light intensity, gas flow rates and mixing to minimise energy consumption.

Environmental control

The monitoring and adjustment of temperature, pH and other factors in flat-panel airlift photobioreactor systems to ensure optimal growth conditions for microalgal species.

Enzymatic hydrolysis

A process in which microalgal biomass is broken down using enzymes to release valuable intracellular components and facilitate further processing.

Enzymes

Microalgae are a rich source of enzymes that can be used in a variety of industrial applications such as food processing and biofuel production.

EPA

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is another omega-3 fatty acid found in some species of microalgae. It is used in food supplements and in the production of omega-3 fortified foods.

Exopolysaccharides

Biopolymers secreted by some microalgae that can be used in the cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries due to their thickening, stabilising and emulsifying properties.

Extraction

Extraction is an important step in the production of microalgae-based products, including biofuels, food supplements and pigments. Various extraction methods are used, including solvent extraction, mechanical digestion and enzymatic hydrolysis.

Extremophilic

Microalgae species that thrive in extreme environmental conditions such as high salinity, high temperature or high pressure and are potential sources of novel bioactive compounds and stress-tolerant genes.

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Fed-batch cultivation

A growth method in which nutrients are added to the culture medium at regular intervals to maintain optimal growth conditions and increase microalgal productivity.

Fatty acid profiling

The analysis of the fatty acid composition of microalgae, which is important for determining their potential as a source of high-quality lipids and biofuels.

Flat-panel photobioreactor

A closed system designed for efficient cultivation of microalgae, characterised by transparent, flat panels with integrated airlift pumps that promote mixing, gas exchange and light exposure.

Flocculation

A method of aggregating and separating microalgal cells from the culture medium that facilitates biomass recovery and reduces dewatering costs. Flocculation is a process by which the cells of microalgae clump together, making them easier to harvest and process. Various flocculants can be used, including synthetic polymers, natural polymers and inorganic salts.

Flue gas

The gas produced by industrial processes that contains carbon dioxide and other pollutants that can be captured and used to grow microalgae.

Flow rate control

The adjustment of gas and liquid flow rates in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors to optimise mass transfer mixing and nutrient distribution for microalgal growth.

Food

Microalgae are a rich source of proteins, vitamins and other nutrients, making them an excellent food source. They are often used in the production of food supplements, protein powders and food additives.

Fucoxanthin

A carotenoid pigment found in brown microalgae that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity properties, with potential applications in the dietary supplement and cosmetic industries.

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Gas exchange

The transfer of CO2, oxygen and other gases between the microalgae culture and the environment in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, which is essential for maintaining optimal growth conditions.

Genome editing

Advanced genetic engineering techniques, such as CRISPR/Cas9, used to modify microalgal genomes to improve productivity, stress tolerance or product quality.

Genetically modified microalgae (GMO)

The use of genetic engineering techniques to modify the DNA of microalgae for various purposes, e.g. to increase lipid production or improve stress tolerance.

Genetic engineering

The manipulation of microalgae to improve desired characteristics such as growth rate, biomass yield, improved oil content and resistance to environmental stress or production of high-value compounds.

Genomics

Microalgal genomics is the study of the DNA sequences and functions of microalgae that can help scientists understand their unique properties and develop new applications for them.

Growth

Microalgal growth depends on a number of factors, including light, temperature, nutrients and pH. The optimal conditions for microalgae growth vary depending on the species.

Growth factors

Nutrients, hormones and other substances that influence the growth and metabolism of microalgae, including nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements.

Growth media

Microalgae require specific growth media to grow and reproduce. These growth media can be produced from a variety of sources, including synthetic compounds, waste products and agricultural by-products.

Green algae

A diverse group of photosynthetic eukaryotic microorganisms belonging to the phylum Chlorophyta, including Chlorella and Dunaliella species, which have various industrial applications.

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Harvesting

Harvesting is the process of collecting and separating the microalgae from the growth medium. Various methods can be used, including centrifugation, filtration and flocculation.

Haematococcus pluvialis

A green microalgae known for its high astaxanthin content and used in the nutraceutical, cosmetic and aquaculture industries. It is widely used in the manufacture of food supplements and cosmetics as it is thought to help improve skin health and reduce inflammation.

Heat exchangers

Devices used to maintain the temperature of microalgal cultures in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors to ensure optimal growth conditions and prevent thermal stress.

Heterotrophic cultivation

Heterotrophic cultivation involves growing microalgae in the presence of organic carbon sources such as sugars or alcohols. This method can be used to improve growth rates and lipid content and is particularly useful for high value products.

Heterotrophic growth

A growth mode in which microalgae are grown in the presence of organic carbon sources such as glucose or acetate, rather than relying solely on photosynthesis.

High-throughput screening

Automated procedures for rapid evaluation and selection of microalgal strains with desirable characteristics, such as high growth rates, lipid content or production of bioactive compounds.

Hydrodynamics

The study and optimisation of fluid flow patterns, mixing and mass transfer in flat-panel photobioreactors to improve microalgal growth and productivity.

Hydrogen

Some species of microalgae can produce hydrogen gas through the process of photosynthesis, which can be used as a sustainable fuel source.

Hydrothermal liquefaction

A thermochemical process for converting wet microalgal biomass into bio-crude oil, a precursor for biofuel production.

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Illumination

The provision of light in flat-panel photobioreactors, which can be done with natural sunlight or artificial light sources such as LEDs, to support photosynthesis and growth of microalgae.

Immobilised microalgae

Microalgal cells attached to solid supports or enclosed in a matrix, which facilitates biomass extraction and ensures continuous cultivation.

Indoor cultivation

A method of microalgae cultivation in which the culture is grown in a controlled indoor environment, allowing year-round production and protection from environmental contaminants.

Industrial wastewater treatment

The use of microalgae to remove pollutants and excess nutrients from industrial wastewater, which can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach.

Industry

Microalgae are used in a wide range of industries, including food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and biofuels. The versatility and sustainability of microalgae make them an attractive alternative to traditional industrial processes.

Industrial applications

Microalgae have numerous industrial applications, including the production of biofuels, food and feed additives, and specialty chemicals.

Industrial biotechnology

The use of microalgae and their derivatives for the production of biofuels, chemicals, materials and other high-value products in a sustainable and economically viable manner.

Inoculum

A small quantity of microalgal cultures used to initiate a new batch or continuous cultivation system.

Inoculum preparation

The process of growing a small volume of microalgal cultures to a high cell density, which is then used to inoculate flat-panel airlift photobioreactors for large-scale production.

Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA)

A sustainable approach that combines microalgae cultivation with aquaculture systems, promoting nutrient recycling and reducing environmental impact.

Isochrysis

A marine microalgae high in lipids and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), commonly used in aquaculture as a feed supplement.

Isolation

The process of isolating and purifying a single microalgal strain from a mixed culture, which is important to maintain the genetic purity and consistency of microalgal production.

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Jatropha

Jatropha is a plant genus that is being studied for use in microalgae cultivation. The seeds of jatropha contain oil that can be used as a feedstock for biodiesel production, while the pulp can serve as a source of nutrients for microalgae.

Jet fuels

Microalgae-based jet fuels are a promising alternative to conventional fossil fuels because they have a high energy content and can be produced on non-arable land and with non-potable water. Research in this area is still ongoing.

J-shaped growth curve

A growth pattern observed in the cultivation of microalgae, characterised by an initial lag phase followed by rapid exponential growth.

Jet sparger

A device used in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors to introduce air and CO2 into the culture to promote mixing and gas exchange for enhanced microalgal growth.

Jobs

The growing demand for microalgae products has led to the creation of new jobs in the microalgae production industry. These jobs range from research and development to production and distribution.

Joint ventures

Joint business partnerships between microalgae producers, technology providers and end users to promote innovation and accelerate the commercialisation of algae-based products.

Young stage

The early growth phase of microalgal cultures in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, characterised by low cell density and rapid population growth.

Juvenile fish nutrition

The use of microalgae-derived products as a source of essential nutrients such as proteins, lipids and pigments for the healthy growth and development of juvenile fish in aquaculture.

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Kelp

Kelp is a type of seaweed that is rich in nutrients and is often used in the production of food and cosmetics. While not a microalgae, kelp is a valuable source of sustainable biomass and has similar benefits to microalgae.

Keratinocytes

Skin cells that can benefit from microalgae-derived antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds to promote skin health and protection in cosmetic applications.

Ketocarotenoids

Ketocarotenoids are a type of carotenoid pigment found in certain species of microalgae. They are used, among other things, as food supplements and in the manufacture of cosmetics and food colourings.

Keto acids

Compounds produced by microalgae during photosynthesis and have various commercial applications, e.g. in the food and cosmetics industries.

Kinetic modelling

To develop mathematical models to describe microalgal growth, nutrient consumption and product formation in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors that can provide information for process optimisation and scale-up.

KLa determination

The measurement of volumetric mass transfer coefficient (KLa) in photobioreactors, which provides an indication of gas exchange efficiency and helps optimise operating conditions.

Krill

Small crustaceans that are an important food source for many species of marine organisms including some microalgae. Microalgae are also being investigated as a possible alternative source of krill oil.

K-strategists

Slow-growing microalgal species adapted to nutrient-poor environments that can be used for long-term cultivation and bioremediation applications.

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Laminaria

A genus of brown algae used to produce alginates that are widely used in food, pharmaceutical and industrial applications.

Light-dark cycle

The alternating pattern of light incidence and darkness in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors that can be controlled to optimise photosynthetic efficiency and microalgal growth rates.

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs)

Energy-efficient light sources used in closed photobioreactor systems to provide optimal light conditions for microalgal growth.

Light intensity

A critical parameter for the cultivation of microalgae, affecting their growth rate and productivity. Optimising light intensity can lead to increased biomass and production of high value compounds.

Light distribution

The uniform distribution of light across the surface of flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, providing optimal exposure and photosynthetic efficiency for microalgal cultures.

Life cycle assessment (LCA)

A comprehensive assessment of the environmental impact and sustainability of microalgal production processes, from cultivation to product use and disposal.

Lipids

Organic compounds found in microalgae cells, including triacylglycerols, phospholipids and sterols, which can be used for biofuel production, food supplements and industrial applications.

Lipid extraction

The process of separating and isolating lipids from microalgal cells for use as biofuels or high-value compounds.

Lipid content

Lipid content is an important factor in the cultivation of microalgae, especially for biofuel production. Some microalgae species have a high lipid content, while others require special growth conditions to accumulate lipids.

Lutein

A carotenoid pigment found in some microalgae species that has antioxidant properties and potential applications in the nutraceutical and cosmetics industries.

Lyophilisation

A freeze-drying process used to preserve and stabilise microalgal biomass and extracts to allow long-term storage and transport.

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Marine microalgae

Microalgae species that thrive in saltwater environments and offer a wide range of applications in aquaculture, biofuel production and bioproduct development.

Mass cultivation

The large-scale production of microalgae in open ponds or closed photobioreactors, with the aim of producing large quantities of biomass or targeted products for various industries.

Mass transfer

The movement of nutrients, gases and other compounds between the microalgal culture and the environment in shallow airlift photobioreactors, which is critical for maintaining optimal growth conditions.

Metabolic engineering

Altering the metabolic pathways of microalgae to optimise the synthesis of desired products such as biofuels or high-value compounds.

Metabolomics

The study of metabolic pathways and compounds produced by microalgae, which can provide insights into their physiological responses to different growth conditions.

Methane

Methane-producing microalgae are being explored as a potential source of renewable energy, as methane can be used as a fuel for electricity generation.