Abstract
A high phosphorus concentration is widely accepted as favorable for enhancing both microalgae growth and lipid accumulation; however, excessively high P could be counter-productive. In this study, we investigated the effects of increasing P levels (5.4, 25, 45, 150, and 250 mg-P L−1) on the heterotrophic cultivation of Chlorella regularis. Microalgae growth was inhibited and cells were severely damaged in response to highly excessive P levels (≥150 mg-P L−1). In particular, 250 mg-P L−1 resulted in a ∼40% decrease in cell density and a ∼70% loss of cell viability. Microalgae damage induced by excessive phosphorus included enlarged cell size, deformation of cell walls, and disorganization of organelles. These negative effects were associated with the over-accumulation of polyphosphates within cells, which may further cause binding of P to intracellular components. Although P is an essential nutrient, excessive P lowers cell growth and viability.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 266-270 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Bioresource Technology |
Volume | 268 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 2018 |
Keywords
- Cell viability
- Microalgae
- Organelle damage
- Phosphorus
- Toxic
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Bioengineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
- Waste Management and Disposal