Fatty acids, sterols, α-tocopberol and total carotenoids composition of Diacronema vlkianum

Microalgae are a large group of photosynthetic microorganisms with a great potential as a source of energy and with the ability to convert solar energy into biomass. Several conditions as well as different growing stages were found to play an important role in the biosynthesis ofdifferent molecules. These microorganisms are easily cultivated, and even under the most difficult conditions, are able to develop. In the present study the production ofdifferent biomolecules, namely sterols, fatty acids, tocopherols and total carotenoids during the life cycle with 24 h of photoperiod and 18C was followed. The major amounts of sterols, fatty acids and total carotenoids were detected in stationary phase. Higher amounts of alpha- tocopherol were present in the decay phase. Tocopherol and total carotenoids levels were higher compared to conventional foods known as rich sources of these components. 4 significant difference was observed between replicates of D. vlkianum for alpha-tocopherol and some sterols.