Calorific values of Chlorella vulgaris (Trebouxiophyceae) as a function of different phosphorus concentrations

Author(s)

Chia, Mathias Ahii ^[1] ; Lombardi, Ana Teresa ^[1] ; Gama Melao, Maria da Graca ^[2]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Fed Sao Carlos, Dept Bot, BR-13560 Sao Carlos, SP - Brazil

^[2] Univ Fed Sao Carlos, Dept Hydrobiol, BR-13560 Sao Carlos, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PHYCOLOGICAL RESEARCH; v. 61, n. 4, p. 286-291, OCT 2013.
• Web of Science Citations: 5

Abstract

Quantification of the calorific content of microalgae is critical in studies of energy flow, trophic partitioning, plant/herbivore interactions in aquaculture and biomass production for biofuels. We investigated the calorific value and biochemical composition of Chlorella vulgaris at different phosphorus (P) concentrations (6.0x10(-7), 2.3x10(-6) and 2.3x10(-4)molL(-1) P). As expected, the control (2.3x10(-4)molL(-1) P) supported better growth than P limited treatments. Biomolecules like total carbohydrates and lipids accumulated under P limitation, which significantly correlated with high calorific values. Lipid class composition showed that triacylglycerols were the most accumulated under P limited conditions. The calorific value reported under control conditions (13.78kJg(-1)) was less than those obtained under P limitation (30.47-33.07kJg(-1)). The highest calorific value with less growth retardation was obtained at 2.3x10(-6)molL(-1) P. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 08/02078-9 - Ecophysiological and production studies of the freshwater Anostraca Dendrocephalus brasiliensis Pesta 1921 and its implications on zooplanktonic and nektonic communities
• Grantee: Maria da Graça Gama Melão
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants