How do you prepare algae?
To grow your own algae, first you’ll need a clear plastic or glass container. You can use a plastic water bottle to grow a small amount of algae or a glass aquarium to grow more. Fill the container with purified water, then add a nutrient solution, which you can buy at a pet store or online.
What raw materials are needed to culture algae?
Water, carbon dioxide, minerals and light are all important factors in cultivation, and different algae have different requirements. The basic reaction for algae growth in water is carbon dioxide + light energy + water = glucose + oxygen + water. This is called autotrophic growth.
What are the various methods for commercial cultivation of algae?
The two most common methods of microalgae cultivation are open cultivation systems, such as open ponds, tanks, and raceway ponds, and controlled closed cultivation systems using different types of bioreactors.
How do you store algae cultures?
Algae can be stored initially in a glass jar, plastic bottle or bag, or in a vial with some water from the collecting site. The container should be left open or only half filled with liquid and wide shallow containers are better than narrow deep jars.
What nutrients are needed for algae growth?
What It Needs to Grow. Algae only require a few essentials to grow: water, sunlight, carbon, and nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. From salt water to fresh water and everything in between, the diversity of algae means that there are suitable strains that can take advantage of nearly any water resource.
What are the best conditions for algae to grow?
Temperatures that are lower than 16°C will slow down the growth of algae. Light also has an effect on the growth of algae: it must not be too strong or weak. In most algal growth cultivation, algae only need about 1/10 of direct sunlight. In most water systems, light only penetrates the top 7-10 cm of water.
What nutrients do algae need to grow?