Brazilian Biomes as Promising Resources of Rhodotorula Yeasts for the Biotechnological Production of Carotenoids

ABSTRACT Yeasts belonging to the genus Rhodotorula are capable of synthesizing carotenoids, such as β‐carotene, γ‐carotene, torulene, torularodine, and astaxanthin. These carotenoids have been shown to offer health benefits to humans, such as immune system strengthening and a reduced risk of chronic degenerative diseases. This review systematically collected and analyzed extant literature on carotenoids of industrial interest produced by these yeasts found in Brazilian biomes (Pampa, Pantanal, Cerrado, Atlantic Forest, Caatinga, and Amazon). The most significant gaps are the absence of molecular identification of strains and the carotenoid composition. Rhodotorula mucilaginosa was found in all the biomes. The Cerrado biome had the largest number of Rhodotorula species, with seven species identified ( R. glutinis, R. mucilaginosa , R. graminis , R. aurantiaca , R. lactosa , R. toruloide , and R. diabovata ), followed by the Amazon biome, with four species: R. mucilaginosa , R. minuta , R. aurantiaca , and R. glutinis .