REVIEW: MICROALGAE BIOTECHNOLOGY

Abstract

This literature review aimed to show features related to microalgae biotechnology. In addition to the history review and importance of the microalgae, applications in food science, algae biomass biochemistry composition, bioproducts, cultivation types and culture medium were approached. The reviewed theme in this paper gives evidence that microalgae biology has been developing around the industrialization potential of algae biomass as food supplement. Produced biomass has several applications like production of single cell protein, lipids, pigments, enzymes, antibiotics, carbohydrates and vitamins. This review makes it is possible to conclude that, other than diversity of applications, microalgae cultivation are related to a short growth period, as it grows in a matter of days, needing simple care and no making use of agricultural defensives utilization.