Algal biotechnology

Borowitzka, M.A.ORCID: 0000-0001-6504-4563 (2015) Algal biotechnology. In: Sahoo, D. and Seckbach, J., (eds.) The Algae World. Springer, Dordrecht, the Netherlands, pp. 319-338.

Abstract

Algal Biotechnology is “the technological application of algae (both microalgae and macroalgae) or their derivatives to make or modify products or processes for specific use”. The phylogenetic diversity of the algae is also reflected in the diversity of habitats they can be found in, and their morphological, physiological and biochemical diversity. Algae already have wide application as sources of useful chemicals such as polysaccharides, carotenoids, phycobilin pigments, and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. They have also found application in the food and feed industries, as fertilizers and growth promoters in agriculture, and in wastewater treatment. Recently algae, especially the microalgae, are receiving renewed interest as potential sources of renewable fuels. The search for new products from new species as well new or improved applications continues. There are new developments in algae culture, harvesting and processing, and developments in molecular biology, metabolomics and the other ‘omics’ are creating opportunities for algal biotechnology. This chapter reviews existing applications and potential new developments in algal biotechnology with a specific focus on the microalgae.

Item Type:	Book Chapter
Murdoch Affiliation(s):	Algae R&D Centre School of Veterinary and Life Sciences
Publisher:	Springer
Copyright:	© Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2015
Notes:	Part of the Cellular Origin, Life in Extreme Habitats and Astrobiology book series (COLE, volume 26)
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/57888

Item Control Page