Alternative nutrients sources for Arthorpira (Spirulina) spp. cultivation

Abstract

The objective of the present literature review was to collect information about alternative nutrients sources for Arthrospira (Spirulina) cultivation using low cost basis, since the culture medium represents significant part of this microalgae production costs. Because of the microalgae uptake of nitrates and phosphates that are present in several kinds of wastes, these alternatives also results in environmental benefits. It was concluded that a large range of alternative nutrients sources were efficient. Although to avoid productivity loss each new nutrient source must be adjusted to reach the concentration in which occurs the highest growth rate and maximum cell concentration, and wastes must also have their lack or excess of nutrients corrected.