Development of Algal Biotechnology

A special issue of Phycology (ISSN 2673-9410).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2025 | Viewed by 1031

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Marine Resources, Conservation and Technology, Marine Algae Laboratory, Centre for Functional Ecology—Science for People & the Planet (CFE), Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
Interests: marine biotechnology; phycology; biodiversity; nutraceuticals
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue explores the cutting-edge advancements and transformative potential of algal biotechnology. Algae, as a sustainable and versatile resource, have gained prominence for their applications across various fields, including biofuels, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, food products, and environmental remediation. The contributions in this Special Issue highlight innovative research on algal cultivation, bioactive compound extraction, genetic engineering, and industrial-scale applications. By addressing challenges and showcasing opportunities, this collection aims to inspire further development and commercialization in the field. We invite readers to delve into these insights and join the global effort to harness the full potential of algae for a sustainable future.

Dr. Leonel Pereira
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • algal biotechnology
  • bioactive compounds
  • algal cultivation
  • genetic engineering in algae
  • industrial applications of algae
  • sustainable biofuels
  • environmental remediation
  • nutraceuticals from algae
  • algal biodiversity
  • marine biotechnology
  • phycology research
  • algal biomass utilization

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Published Papers (2 papers)

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Research

22 pages, 3276 KiB  
Article
Hybrid Machine Learning Models for Predicting the Impact of Light Wavelengths on Algal Growth in Freshwater Ecosystems
by Himaranga Sumanasekara, Harshi Jayasingha, Gayan Amarasooriya, Narada Dayarathne, Bandita Mainali, Lalantha Senevirathna, Ashoka Gamage and Othmane Merah
Phycology 2025, 5(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/phycology5020023 - 8 Jun 2025
Viewed by 205
Abstract
This study examines the influence of light wavelengths on the growth dynamics of five algal genera (Chlorella sp., Volvox sp., Gloeocapsa sp., Microspora sp., and Mougeotia sp.) in freshwater systems, using machine learning to optimize growth models. Natural light yielded the highest [...] Read more.
This study examines the influence of light wavelengths on the growth dynamics of five algal genera (Chlorella sp., Volvox sp., Gloeocapsa sp., Microspora sp., and Mougeotia sp.) in freshwater systems, using machine learning to optimize growth models. Natural light yielded the highest algal proliferation, increasing the total count from 90 to 1390 cells/mL in 30 days. Filtered wavelengths showed that blue light most effective (840 cells/mL), followed by red (490 cells/mL) and yellow (200 cells/mL), while green light minimally impacted growth (160 cells/mL). Genera-specific responses revealed that Gloeocapsa sp. and Mougeotia sp. thrived the most under blue light (240 and 750 cells/mL, respectively), with red and blue wavelengths generally enhancing growth across genera. Machine learning models achieved high accuracy (R2 > 0.96 for total growth and R2 > 0.8 for genera-specific and wavelength-based models), refining growth kinetics. These results suggest that spectral manipulation limiting blue/red wavelengths in water treatment to curb blooms while leveraging natural light for biofuel cultivation could optimize algal management. The integration of empirical data with machine learning offers a robust framework for predictive modeling in algal research and industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Algal Biotechnology)
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12 pages, 1299 KiB  
Article
Scale-Up Cultivation of the Dinoflagellate Durusdinium glynnii Under Varying Inoculum Percentages: Effects on Growth Performance and Fatty Acid Profile
by Pedro Rodrigues de Sena, Maria Eunice S. S. Lira, Deyvid Willame S. Oliveira, Barbara de Cassia S. Brandão, Jessika L. de Abreu, Watson Arantes Gama, Evando S. Araújo, Giustino Tribuzi, Alfredo O. Gálvez and Carlos Yure B. Oliveira
Phycology 2025, 5(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/phycology5020021 - 2 Jun 2025
Viewed by 217
Abstract
Microalgae are photosynthetic organisms with rapid growth and high biochemical diversity, capable of thriving in a variety of environments. Among them, dinoflagellates, particularly symbiotic species like Durusdinium glynnii, have gained attention due to their potential for biotechnological applications, especially in the production [...] Read more.
Microalgae are photosynthetic organisms with rapid growth and high biochemical diversity, capable of thriving in a variety of environments. Among them, dinoflagellates, particularly symbiotic species like Durusdinium glynnii, have gained attention due to their potential for biotechnological applications, especially in the production of valuable fatty acids. However, the delicate cultivation of dinoflagellates remains a challenge due to their sensitivity to shear stress and complex morphology. In this study, we evaluated the influence of inoculum percentage (10%, 25%, and 50%) on the growth performance and fatty acid profile of D. glynnii during a scale-up process from test tubes to a pilot-scale photobioreactor. Higher inoculum concentrations (50%) promoted faster acclimatization, higher specific growth rates (µmax), and greater final biomass densities, optimizing the cultivation process. Meanwhile, lower inoculum concentrations (10%) favored the accumulation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly DHA (C22:6n3), indicating a trade-off between biomass productivity and fatty acid biosynthesis. Overall, D. glynnii demonstrated robust adaptability, reinforcing its potential as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds. Further studies focusing on cellular and metabolic pathways are needed to better elucidate the mechanisms underlying lipid production and growth in this promising species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Algal Biotechnology)
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