The role of light wavelengths in regulating algal-bacterial granules formation, protein and lipid accumulation, and microbial functions

High value-added products recovery from algal-bacterial granular sludge (ABGS) has received great attention recently. This study aimed to explore the role of different light wavelengths in regulating granule formation, protein and lipid production, and microbial functions. Bacterial granular sludge (BGS, R0) was most conducive to forming ABGS under blue (R2) light with the highest chlorophyll a (10.2 mg/g-VSS) and diameter (1800 mu m), followed by red (R1) and white (R3) lights. R0-R3 acquired high protein contents (>164.8 mg/g-VSS) with essential amino acids above 44.4%, all of which were suitable for recycling, but R2 was the best. Also, blue light significantly increased total lipid production, while red light promoted the accumulation of some unsaturated fatty acids (C18:2 and C18:3). Some unique algae and dominant bacteria (e.g., Stigeoclonium, Chlamydomonas, and Flavobacteria) enrichment and some key functions (e.g., amino acid, fatty acid, and lipid biosynthesis) up -regulation in R2 might help to improve proteins and lipids quality. Combined, this study provides valuable guidance for protein and lipid recovery from ABGS.

Automated summary

This study investigates the effects of different light wavelengths on granular formation, protein and lipid production, and microbial functions in algal-bacterial granular sludge (ABGS). Blue light promotes the formation of ABGS with the highest chlorophyll a content and diameter. Blue light also significantly increases total lipid production, while red light promotes the accumulation of unsaturated fatty acids. These findings provide valuable guidance for protein and lipid recovery from ABGS.