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.

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 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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

Microscopic, photosynthetic organisms that can convert sunlight, carbon dioxide and nutrients into biomass, biofuels and high-value compounds.

Microbial contamination is a common problem in the cultivation of microalgae as it can lead to reduced productivity and quality. There are several strategies to reduce microbial contamination, including sterilisation, sanitation and the use of probiotics.

The diverse community of microorganisms that inhabit microalgal cultures and can influence their growth and productivity.

A critical parameter in the design and operation of flat-panel airlift photobioreactors that ensures proper distribution of nutrients, gases and light penetration for microalgal cultures.

Mixing is an important factor in the cultivation of microalgae as it helps to distribute nutrients and prevent sedimentation. Various types of mixing systems are used in microalgae production, including paddle wheels, aerators and static mixers.

A growth method that combines autotrophic and heterotrophic conditions, allowing microalgae to use both light and organic carbon sources to increase their productivity.

Monitoring the growth and health of microalgae is important to ensure optimal production yields. This includes monitoring factors such as pH, temperature, nutrient levels and contamination.

A genus of marine microalgae with high lipid content, making it a promising candidate for biofuel production and a source of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Microalgae require nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to grow. These nutrients are usually supplied to the production system in the form of fertilisers or other additives.

Microalgae play a key role in nutrient cycling in aquatic ecosystems by taking up nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus and making them available to other organisms.

The process of recovering and reusing nutrients from waste streams, such as wastewater or aquaculture effluent for microalgae farming.

The process of adding essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements to microalgal cultures in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors.

Innovative techniques that enable the continuous extraction of high-value compounds from living microalgal cells without affecting their growth or productivity.

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for microalgal growth and is often a limiting factor for production. Various sources of nitrogen can be used, including ammonium, nitrate and urea.

Nitrogen fixation is the process by which certain microorganisms, including cyanobacteria, convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by other organisms. This process is important for soil fertility and can be used to reduce the need for nitrogen fertiliser in agriculture.

The introduction of nitrogen gas into flat-panel airlift photobioreactors to maintain a stable pH and prevent CO2 overdosing in the microalgae culture.

Products derived from microalgae (dietary supplements, functional foods and natural health products) that have potential health benefits, such as omega-3 fatty acids or antioxidant pigments.

Microalgae species with high lipid content, which are suitable for the production of biofuels
and high-quality lipid-derived products.

Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are important for human health. Some microalgae species, such as Schizochytrium and Nannochloropsis, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are used in food supplements and functional foods.

Open-ponds are the simplest and most cost-effective production system for microalgae. They consist of large, shallow pools of water exposed to sunlight and air to allow the microalgae to grow. Disadvantages include the low density of active ingredients and the high risk of contamination and fluctuating growth rates that can be associated with them.

A measure of microalgal culture density and biomass concentration in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, determined by the amount of light absorbed or scattered by the culture.

A genus of filamentous cyanobacteria found in various aquatic environments. Some species are known to produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.

The effect of high salt concentrations on microalgal cells that can lead to changes in metabolism, gene expression and production of compatible solutes.

A method of microalgae cultivation in which the culture is grown outdoors in open ponds or photobioreactors, which is subject to environmental fluctuations but may be a more cost-effective method compared to indoor cultivation.

A cellular imbalance caused by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species that can be counteracted by microalgae-derived antioxidants in various applications.

The process of removing excess oxygen produced during photosynthesis in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, which can be achieved by degassing or gas stripping.

The application of procedures and standards to ensure that microalgal cultures and products from flat-panel airlift photobioreactors meet the required specifications and quality criteria.

A systematic approach to ensure that microalgal production processes and products meet predefined quality standards and specifications.

The process of measuring and determining the concentration of microalgae in a culture, which is essential for monitoring growth and optimising production.

The use of analytical techniques such as spectrophotometry or chromatography to determine the concentration of target substances in microalgal cultures grown in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors.

A molecular method for quantifying target DNA sequences in microalgae, allowing strain identification and monitoring of gene expression.

The process of rapidly cooling microalgae to stop their metabolic activity and maintain their quality during storage and transport.

A process by which microorganisms, including microalgae, communicate with each other and coordinate their behaviour. Understanding quorum sensing in microalgae can help optimise growing conditions and improve productivity.

A process in which the growth and productivity of microalgae is limited to a certain threshold to prevent excessive growth and maintain optimal conditions for cultivation.

A type of open-pond system characterised by continuous water flow and paddlewheel-driven mixing, commonly used for large-scale microalgae farming.

Small aquatic invertebrates used in aquaculture as live feed that can be enriched with microalgae-derived nutrients to improve fish nutrition.

Unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage that can be neutralised by microalgae-derived antioxidants in various applications.

The use of waste materials or by-products from microalgae production, such as carbon dioxide or wastewater, for other purposes, e.g. fertilisation or energy production.

Microalgae are being explored as a means of environmental remediation, as they can remove pollutants such as heavy metals and organic compounds from water and soil.

Microalgae are a promising source of renewable energy, especially in the form of biofuels. Compared to conventional biofuel crops, microalgae have a higher lipid content and can be grown on non-arable land and with non-potable water.

Research into microalgae continues, with a focus on improving production efficiency, identifying new applications and developing new strains with desirable properties.

The average time microalgal cells spend in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, affecting growth rates, biomass productivity and product formation.

The rate at which microalgal culture is recirculated in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, affecting mixing, mass transfer and light exposure.

Recirculation systems can be used in microalgal cultivation to improve efficiency and reduce water and nutrient consumption. In these systems, the culture medium is circulated through the culture system, allowing the reuse of water and nutrients.

From laboratory-scale (pre-scale) microalgal cultivation to larger commercial production systems: The process of scaling up and increasing the production capacity of flat-panel airlift photobioreactor systems, which involves transferring optimal operating conditions and design principles from smaller-scale systems to larger-scale systems.

A green microalgae with high lipid and carbohydrate content suitable for biofuel production and bioremediation applications.

A cyanobacterium (blue-green algae) known for its high vitamin, antioxidant and protein content and nutritional value and used in the food, dietary supplement and cosmetic industries.

The process of removing or inactivating contaminants such as bacteria, fungi or viruses in flat-panel airlift photobioreactor systems to ensure axenic microalgal cultures.

The process of genetically modifying microalgal strains to improve their growth rate, productivity or production of high value compounds.

Strain selection is an important aspect of microalgal cultivation, as different strains have different growth rates, nutrient requirements and biochemical compositions. Selecting the right strain for a particular application is critical to success.

A high-pressure extraction method used to isolate and purify microalgae-derived compounds such as lipids, pigments and bioactive molecules.

An interdisciplinary approach that combines experimental and computational techniques to study the complex interactions between microalgae, proteins and metabolic pathways.

Microalgal taxonomy is the classification of microalgal species based on their morphological, physiological and genetic characteristics. Accurate taxonomy is important for the identification and characterisation of microalgal strains for various applications.

Various technologies are used for the production of microalgae, including photobioreactors, open ponds and hybrid systems. Advances in technology are helping to improve production efficiency and reduce costs.

Temperature is an important factor in the cultivation of microalgae as it affects growth rates, nutrient uptake and lipid content. Different microalgae species have different temperature preferences, and optimal growth conditions may vary depending on the production system.

Monitoring and adjusting the temperature of microalgae culture in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors to ensure optimal growth conditions and avoid thermal stress.

The use of microalgae for nutrient removal and water treatment in wastewater treatment systems, providing an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution.

Microalgae can be used as a source of sustainable fibres for textiles, such as clothing and furniture, which can reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

Processes such as pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction that use heat and pressure to convert microalgal biomass into biofuels, chemicals and other valuable products.

Trace minerals are essential micronutrients required by living organisms, including microalgae, in small amounts to maintain their health and function. These minerals, also known as trace elements, include zinc, iron, manganese, copper, selenium, molybdenum, iodine and cobalt.

A type of closed cultivation system characterised by transparent tubes arranged in loops or spiral structures.

Flow patterns in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors that promote mixing, nutrient distribution and gas exchange, contributing to improved microalgal growth and productivity.

A genus of marine microalgae being researched for its potential for biofuel production.

A technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to break down the cell walls of microalgae, facilitating the release and extraction of valuable intracellular compounds.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is known to have both positive and negative effects on microalgal growth and productivity. In some species, UV radiation can stimulate growth and promote lipid accumulation, while in others it can lead to cell damage and reduced growth rates.

A genus of green macroalgae commonly known as sea lettuce. It serves as a food source for humans and animals and is also being studied for its potential for bioremediation and biofuel production. Ulva is known for its rapid growth and ability to remove nutrients from wastewater.

Individual steps in microalgae production processes, including cultivation, harvesting, extraction and downstream processing that can be optimised for maximum efficiency and product quality.

The initial stages of microalgae production in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, including strain selection, inoculum preparation, medium formulation and system operation of cultivation.

An inorganic nitrogen source that can be used in microalgal cultivation as a cost-effective and readily available alternative to conventional fertilisers.

Microalgae have numerous uses in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and biofuels. They can be used as a source of proteins, antioxidants and other nutrients, as well as for the production of biofuels and other industrial products.

The process of converting microalgal biomass and by-products into valuable raw materials such as biofuels, chemicals, materials and high-value compounds.

Value-added products are products made from microalgae that have a higher value than the raw material itself. Examples include food supplements, cosmetics and biofuels.

An innovative approach to microalgae cultivation that uses vertically stacked layers, often combined with artificial lighting, to maximise biomass production in limited space.

Vertical photobioreactors are a type of cultivation system that allows the cultivation of microalgae at high density in a relatively small footprint. These systems are designed to optimise light penetration and nutrient delivery, and are particularly suitable for high-value products.

A measure of the health and metabolic activity of microalgal cells that can be assessed by various methods such as cell counting, fluorescence microscopy or flow cytometry.

Pathogenic bacteria that can be controlled in aquaculture systems using microalgae-derived compounds with antimicrobial properties.

Microalgae are rich in various vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. These vitamins are used, among other things, as dietary supplements and in the production of functional foods.

Organic compounds formed during the anaerobic fermentation of microalgal biomass that can be used for the production of biogas or biofuel.

A measure of the production of microalgal biomass or target compounds per unit volume in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors that can be used to evaluate system performance and compare different cultivation strategies.

Selecting specific wavelengths of light to optimise photosynthesis and growth of microalgal cultures cultivated in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors.

Microalgae production systems have a much smaller water footprint than conventional agriculture, making them a more sustainable alternative.

The flow of water through heat exchangers or other cooling systems in photobioreactors, which is essential for maintaining stable temperature conditions for microalgal growth.

The concept of using waste streams, such as carbon dioxide emissions or wastewater, as resources for the cultivation of microalgae and the production of value-added products.

Microalgae are being investigated as a potential solution for wastewater treatment, as they can remove nutrients and pollutants from wastewater while producing biomass that can be used for biofuel production.

Microalgae that are harvested in their natural, wet state and can be used directly as feed or fertiliser without further processing.

A process involving the separation of microalgae-derived compounds such as lipids or proteins from the biomass in an aqueous environment.

Xanthophylls are a type of carotenoid pigment found in microalgae, especially green microalgae such as Chlorella and Dunaliella. They are used as natural food colourings and have antioxidant properties.

Xenobiotics are foreign substances that can be harmful to microalgae and other organisms. Understanding the effects of xenobiotics on microalgae can help develop strategies to mitigate their negative effects and improve productivity.

A technique used to analyse the crystal structure of microalgae-derived compounds, providing information about their molecular arrangement and interactions.

A non-destructive imaging technique that can be used to analyse the internal structure and flow patterns in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors, providing valuable information for system design and optimisation.

An enzyme that can be produced by certain microalgae species and can be used to degrade plant biomass for the production of biofuels or animal feed.

A pentose sugar that can be utilised by some microalgal species under heterotrophic or mixotrophic growth conditions, increasing biomass and product yields.

Some species of microalgae produce yellow pigments called xanthophylls, which have a variety of commercial applications in the food and cosmetics industries.

A toxin produced by some species of marine microalgae. It is known to cause diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal symptoms in people who consume contaminated shellfish.

Yield of microalgae production systems refers to the amount of biomass or product produced per unit of input. Improving yield is an important goal in microalgae production as it helps to reduce costs and increase profitability.

A measure of the efficiency of microalgal biomass or target compound production per unit of substrate or light energy consumed in flat-panel airlift photobioreactors.

The process of maximising biomass yield from a microalgal production system by optimising growth conditions and harvesting techniques.

A rare earth element that can be recovered from wastewater or industrial effluent using microalgae, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional mining methods.

Materials used in LED lighting systems that can be synthesised using microalgae-derived yttrium for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly light sources.

A carotenoid pigment found in microalgae that can be used in the food, food and cosmetic industries due to its antioxidant properties and ability to protect against age-related macular degeneration.

A sustainable approach to microalgae cultivation that aims to minimise waste and environmental impact by maximising resource use, recycling nutrients and integrating waste streams.

A method to minimise exposure to oxygen during the extraction of volatile compounds from microalgal biomass to maintain product quality and reduce potential degradation.

Zinc

An essential trace element required for microalgal growth and metabolism that can be supplied by various inorganic or organic sources in the culture media.

The electron transfer process in photosynthesis that occurs between photosystem I and photosystem II in microalgae, providing the energy required for carbon fixation and biomass production.

Zooplankton are small aquatic animals that feed on microalgae. In some cases, microalgae can be used to grow zooplankton, which can then be used as a protein source for various applications including aquaculture and animal feed.