Commercial Production of Microalgae via Fermentation

Microalgae are generally thought of as photosynthetic microorganisms. However, the production of high-value products from microalgae using fermentation employing the ability of some microalgae to grow on sugar in the dark (heterotrophic production) has proven commercially very successful to date. This chapter outlines the factors behind the commercial success of growing algae using fermentation and briefly describes the heterotrophic potential of microalgae. The history of commercial-scale microalgae production using fermentation is outlined, and the three commercially successful production technologies now in operation are described. Research focused on extending these technologies into new arenas is discussed along with other elements that will factor into the continued, long-term viability of this type of microalgal production strategy.