Growth kinetics of 1-2 mm and 3-4 mm colonies of Nostoc sphaeroides (Cyanophyta) in outdoor culture

Abstract

Nostoc sphaeroides Kützing was cultivated in paddlewheel-driven raceway ponds and the growth kinetics of 1-2 mm and 3-4 mm colonies of N. sphaeroides was studied. The biomass productivities in 2.5 m2 raceway ponds inoculated with 1-2 mm and 3-4 mm colonies were 5.2 and 0.25 g dry wt m-2 d-1, respectively. Furthermore, differently sized colonies showed different relative water content, total soluble carbohydrates, chlorophyll a content and density of filaments. This is the first report on mass culture of N. sphaeroides under outdoor conditions. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]