Arthrospira - a multitalented microalga

    Research outputpeer-review

    Abstract

    Originally classified within the Spirulina taxa of cyanobacteria, Arthrospira is a distinct genus of helical-shaped filamentous cyanobacteria that mainly bloom on alkaline carbonate-rich lakes – ‘soda lakes’ – in warm countries. It is a highly efficient photosynthesiser capable of producing oxygen in harsh environments, such as extremely salty or high pH water, and in high concentrations of CO2 and other noxious gases. Used extensively for feedstock in agriculture and fish farming, Arthrospira is also marketed as a food supplement for human use. Its promise as a key component in solutions for future food security, as well as evidence of its health benefits, has led to the establishment of large farms with shallow raceway ponds for commercial Spirulina production around the world – estimated to exceed 100,000 tonnes by the year 2020.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)58-60
    JournalInternational Innovation
    Issue number134
    StatePublished - 30 Apr 2014

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