Influence of the Nitrate-N to Ammonium-N Ratio on Relative Growth Rate and Crude Protein Content in the Duckweeds Lemna minor and Wolffiella hyalina

In order to produce protein-rich duckweed for human and animal consumption, a stable cultivation process, including an optimal nutrient supply for each species, must be implemented. Modified nutrient media, based on the N-medium for duckweed cultivation, were tested on the relative growth rate (RGR) and crude protein content (CPC) of Lemna minor and Wolffiella hyalina, as well as the decrease of nitrate-N and ammonium-N in the media. Five different nitrate-N to ammonium-N molar ratios were diluted to 10% and 50% of the original N-medium concentration. The media mainly consisted of agricultural fertilizers. A ratio of 75% nitrate-N and 25% ammonium-N, with a dilution of 50%, yielded the best results for both species. Based on the dry weight (DW), L. minor achieved a RGR of 0.23 +/- 0.009 d(-1) and a CPC of 37.8 +/- 0.42%, while W. hyalina's maximum RGR was 0.22 +/- 0.017 d(-1), with a CPC of 43.9 +/- 0.34%. The relative protein yield per week and m(2) was highest at this ratio and dilution, as well as the ammonium-N decrease in the corresponding medium. These results could be implemented in duckweed research and applications if a high protein content or protein yield is the aim.

Automated summary

By testing different nitrate-N to ammonium-N ratios and dilutions, it was found that a ratio of 75% nitrate-N and 25% ammonium-N, with a dilution of 50%, yielded the best results for Lemna minor and Wolffiella hyalina. This ratio and dilution resulted in the highest relative protein yield per week and m(2) for both species.