S13: Bioprospecting and Managing Algal Cultures for Commercial Exploitation

Algae are a heterogeneous group of morphologically simple photosynthetic organisms with huge industrial potential. Macroalgae have been exploited commercially for centuries while the economic potential of microalgae is still in early stages of exploitation. The rapid phototrophic growth in relatively unprotected environments and high neutral lipid content of many strains of microalogae have made them an attractive source of biofuels, human and animal nutrients, and higher-value products. Tens of thousands of morphologically distinct species of algae have been identified and many have been cultured on a small scale, but described species probably represent only a small fraction of those which occur naturally. Methods for discovering new strains and maintaining laboratory cultures are different from procedures utilized for discovering and culturing heterotrophic microbes. Genetic modification for improved commercial potential is possible with prokaryotic algae (cyanobacteria), while tools for controlled genetic modification of eukaryotic algae are slowly becoming available. Microalgae that are maintained in artificial culture accumulate genetic mutations that may be expressed as altered morphological, biochemical and/or physiological qualities. Thus, economically valuable strains must be genetically stabilized. Cryopreservation is successful for some species, but must be improved. Publicly-accessible repositories of algae are essential for maintaining a diverse range of genetically stable seed stock, for documenting strain characteristics, and as an information resource for those who culture algae at large scale. The goods and services of algal repositories should be expanded and improved to fully support the rapidly developing field of algal commercialization.