Marine Microalgae-Microorganism Co-Cultures: An Insight into Nannochloropsis sp. Use and Biotechnological...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Sustainable Resources
• Marine Microbiology and Phycology

Background:

• Microalgae are increasingly recognized for sustainable, economical, and eco-friendly applications.
• Marine oleaginous microalgae, especially Nannochloropsis, are key candidates for co-cultivation systems.
• These systems offer potential in food, feed, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and bioremediation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of Nannochloropsis and other marine microalgae in co-cultivation.
• To explore mechanisms of interaction and biotechnological potential in these systems.
• To highlight applications in food, alternative proteins, and cellular agriculture.

Main Methods:

• Review of case studies involving Nannochloropsis sp. co-cultures with microalgae, bacteria, and fungi.
• Analysis of interaction mechanisms and association types in co-cultivation.
• Evaluation of nutritional value, safety, and regulatory status for food applications.

Main Results:

• Co-cultivation strategies enhance biomass productivity, lipid accumulation, and nutrient recycling.
• Nannochloropsis co-cultures show significant potential for food applications due to nutritional value and safety.
• Microalgae integration in cultivated meat offers nutrient supply and metabolic support.

Conclusions:

• Microalgae co-cultivation presents a viable strategy for sustainable biotechnology.
• Challenges in scale-up, contamination, and strain selection need addressing for wider adoption.
• Future research should optimize co-cultures for food, functional foods, and cellular agriculture.