CO2 biofixation and fatty acid composition of two indigenous Dunaliella sp. isolates (ABRIINW-CH2 and ABRIINW-SH33) in response to extremely high CO2 levels.

Abstract

Global warming, as a result of atmospheric CO2 increase, is regarded as an important universal concern. Microalgae are considered as appropriate microorganisms for CO2 assimilation. Here we aimed to investigate carbon biofixation ability of two indigenous isolates of Dunaliella spp. (ABRIINW-CH2 and ABRIINW-SH33) under elevated CO2 concentrations of 10, 20, and 30% (v/v) as well as their lipid content, productivity, and fatty acid profile under adjusted pH conditions. The maximum biomass production and CO2 biofixation rates were obtained under 10% CO2. High CO2 concentrations were favorable for the accumulation of lipids, lipid productivity, and polyunsaturated fatty acids formation. The highest lipid content and lipid productivity was obtained at 10% CO2. The highest fraction of the fatty acids (FA) profile was allocated to omega-3 FAs at 20% CO2. Accordingly, these isolates were able to tolerate extremely high CO2 concentrations and present even enhanced growth as well as formation of valuable products.