Comparison of different cultivation modes and light intensities using mono-cultures and co-cultures of Haematococcus pluvialis and Chlorella zofingiensis

BACKGROUND: Recent studies indicate that microalgal cultivation using organic carbon sources has the potential to provide high yields. Haematococcus pluvialis and Chlorella zofingiensis, two important carotenoid producers, were selected for co-culture cultivations to utilize the unique advantages of both organisms. A co-culture production process was investigated in terms of the effects of organic carbon source, co-cultivation method, and light intensity on carotenoid production.