Factors Affecting Growth of Various Microalgal Species

The diversity of microalgal species is colossal; however, only a few species are better known and have been investigated relatively well. Lately, microalgae have been garnering great consideration because of their potential to serve as a feedstock for either biofuel or nutraceutical production. They have the capability of producing and storing desired products as cell metabolites, and adapting themselves when there is a change in the environmental conditions (pH, temperature, light, carbon dioxide, salinity, and nutrients). The current review focuses on how the environmental conditions, including mixing, affect the growth and biomass productivity of various species of microalgae. This baseline information is important to focus on research efforts for improving biomass productivity to enhance the use of algae as a feedstock for various industries and applications. Optimal environmental conditions for enhancing biomass productivity of various species of microalgae as well as screening and selection of microalgae species are also discussed.