Nannochloris sp. and Oocystis sp. Algae Exposed to Osmotic Stress for Increased Lipid Production for Use in Biofuels

Author

Laura M. Chavez, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

8-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Michael Persans

Second Advisor

Dr. Hudson DeYoe

Third Advisor

Dr. Megan Keniry

Abstract

Algal biofuel research is important due to the potential need for replacement of non-renewable fossil fuels and a changing global climate. Under stress, algal cells tend to increase neutral lipid production, which are a suitable source for biofuels. The goal of this study was to subject Nannochloris sp.. and Oocystis sp. algal cells to osmotic stress by modifying sucrose and salinity levels in different treatment medias.

The treatment containing the lowest salinity (15 ppt) and no sucrose yielded the highest lipid fluorescence/cell in Nannochloris sp.. cells (0.00142 ± 0.00044) on day 2 while the treatment containing highest salinity (35ppt) and no sucrose yielded the highest lipid fluorescence/cell in Oocystis sp. cells (0.0042 ± 0.00068) on day 2. The highest lipid fluorescence/cell occurs within the first seven days for both Nannochloris sp.. and Oocystis sp. and the lipid fluorescence/cell reaches a plateau after 14 days in culture for all treatments tested.

Comments

Copyright 2018 Laura Chavez. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/i-nannochloris-sp-oocystis-algae-exposed-osmotic/docview/2132085208/se-2?accountid=7119

Recommended Citation

Chavez, Laura M., "Nannochloris sp. and Oocystis sp. Algae Exposed to Osmotic Stress for Increased Lipid Production for Use in Biofuels" (2018). Theses and Dissertations. 254.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/254